Some strange lag? issues

Over the last few weeks, the game has been unplayable due to a lag/latency/stutter issue? Im not quite sure because my framerate is staying at a constant 60 fps. What seems to be happening (and yes, I did time it) is that I am getting 8 seconds of gameplay and 2 second of lag-like behavior. All of the charaters/actions/etc will stop for these two seconds, but I remain at 60 fps. After the two seconds is up, the actions commence. So either the battle will appear to fast forward or the retainers will finally show up, etc. I am not sure what information is needed exactly, so please let me know what I need to provide.

Good afternoon and thank you for posting on the Final Fantasy XIV Technical Support Forums.

Since it's not affecting your frame rate, the lags are probably due to connection to the server. This usually occurs when there is interference and/or congestion along your route to the server. While there isn't much to do about that particular issue, there are some things you can do with your home network:

1) If you are on a wireless connection, use an Ethernet cable to connect directly to your router.

2) Reset your router by turning it off and back on after a few minutes. Also, check to see if your router has any firmware updates.

3) Check the following Port Ranges on your router/modem to ensure that they have been opened:
▼TCP
54992 through 54994,
55006 through 55007,
55021 through 55040
Your ISP can open these ports for you.

4) The game will use the Internet Explorer web browser to connect to the internet. Open Internet Explorer, then open the "Tools" setting, go to "Internet Options" and adjust the following settings:
- Under the "General" tab, please delete ALL browser history.
- Under the "Security" tab, please move the slider to the lowest possible settings or no higher than "Medium"
- Under the "Privacy" tab, click “Advanced” and select ‘Accept’ under both First Party and Third Party Cookies.
- Under the "Advanced" tab, please make sure that "Allow software to run or install even if signature is invalid" is CHECKED.
- Make sure that all SSL and TLS (EXCEPT SSL 3.0) are CHECKED. [SSL 3.0 should be UNCHECKED]
- Hit "Apply" to save the settings, and then "OK, to close the Internet Options menu.

We hope we can be of assistance in helping you enjoy the exciting world of Final Fantasy XIV!