What is 'latency' in network terms?

Latency in network terms refers to the delay before data transfer begins after a request is made. It is a critical factor in determining the performance of a network, as it directly impacts how quickly data is sent and received. High latency can lead to noticeable delays in communication, which can affect applications that require real-time data transmission, such as video conferencing or online gaming.

The concept of latency encompasses several components, including the time taken for a packet of data to travel from the source to the destination and the time it takes for the signals to be processed along the way. This delay can be caused by various factors, including network congestion, the physical distance between the communicating devices, and the performance of routers and switches involved in data transmission.

Understanding latency is vital for optimizing network performance and for troubleshooting delays in connectivity. It provides insight into the efficiency of a network and can indicate whether improvements need to be made to reduce response times for users.