What You Need to Know About Network Latency
Latency, commonly referred to as lag, is the time taken for data to travel through a network. It is a vital aspect of any network, and the lower the latency, the better the network's performance.
When you are online, and you click on something, or you start streaming a video, or you make a voice call online, your device sends a request to the server. The server then sends the requested information back to your device. The time delay between your device sending the request and receiving the response is the latency.
Having high latency can be frustrating and negatively affect user experience, especially in online gaming and video conferencing. Simply put, nobody wants a jerky video, choppy audio, or delayed response time when in a conversation.
What causes network latency? Several factors can contribute to high latency. Bandwidth issues, network congestion, poor connectivity, and long distances are just a few examples. Even the type of network equipment used can impact latency.
As a user, you can improve your latency by making sure your device is using the latest drivers and software, choosing the right server for your activities, and avoiding peak usage times. However, if you rely heavily on the internet for work or other activities, you might want to consider getting a more robust internet connection or upgrading your network equipment.
It's clear that network latency should not be ignored. The faster the connection, the better the experience. So, when choosing an internet service provider, consider their latency and choose wisely.