Windows 7: Team Fortress 2 Long time to connect to servers

Whenever I try to connect to a server on Team Fortress 2, whether it be an official tf2 server, or a custom one, it takes an unusual long amount of time. The loading usually gets stuck on "retrieving server info.." for approx. 3-4+ mins, and then another minute or two on "sending server info".

I have tried defragging, allowing through firewall but no results.

I also get a 20 second or so freeze when I disconnect from a server; the game gets stuck while getting back to the menu, which is also very frustrating. Could this be caused by the same problem?



Thanks in advance.

I think it's normal because i take like 1-2 mins to connect to a sever and about 30 secs to disconnect but your a little longer then me. Though You could try changing your dns settings.You can use dns bench to bench mark the dns your using and then at the end of the test it will recommend you a dns sever to connect to.I change my dns settings when ever i feel my connection is being a slug.
This video shows you how to do that.