What is the impact of latency on throughput in networks?

What is the impact of latency on throughput in networks?

Latency refers to the delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction. Throughput is the rate at which data is successfully transmitted. High latency can reduce throughput because it increases the time it takes for packets to travel across the network.

Can you explain how latency affects data transfer rates?

Certainly! When latency is high, each packet takes longer to reach its destination, which can lead to delays in acknowledgments and retransmissions. This can effectively lower the overall data transfer rate, as the sender must wait longer to send more data.

Are there specific scenarios where latency has a more significant impact?

Yes, latency has a more significant impact in real-time applications like video conferencing or online gaming, where timely data delivery is crucial. In these cases, even small increases in latency can lead to noticeable delays and affect user experience.

What can be done to reduce latency in a network?

To reduce latency, you can optimize network routes, use faster hardware, implement caching strategies, and minimize the number of hops data must take. Additionally, using content delivery networks (CDNs) can help by bringing data closer to users.