The settings on your client also hinder or help your download speed. The following actions will optimize your client settings:
-Limit your upload rate to 80% of the maximum rate available. Refer to your Internet Service Provider's documentation to determine your connection type's maximum upload rate. If you see only a few peers listed though, switch settings to 100% and you'll see faster results.
-Limit the number of incoming connections. Client defaults vary. Try dropping the number one value at a time to see the speed results of various settings. Always leave at least one incoming connection open. "