Network Latency

What is Latency within a network?

Network latency, or simply delay, is an indication of the time it takes for data packets to travel to designated destinations. In some uses of the term i.e. AT&T, latency is measured by sending a packet that is returned to the sender and the time taken to complete the round-trip is considered the latency.

The assumption regarding latency seems to be that the transmitting of data from one point to another, should be instant (that is, with no delay at all).

There are various contributing factors to network latency. These include:

• Propagation - Simply the time it takes for a data packet to travel between one place and another.

• Transmission: The act of transmission itself, whether through optical fiber, wireless, or another method, creates some delay. The size of the packet also affects delay in a round trip as larger packets will take longer to receive and return.

• Router and other processing: With each gateway node, time is taken to examine and possibly a packet's header.

• Other computer and storage delays: Packets may be subjected to hard disk access or storage delays at each end of their journey, with devices such as switches and bridges contributing to delays also.

For more information on Latency or any other network issues, please do not hesitate to contact the 5G team, we're here to help!