Performance of Networks

Performance of Networks

1. Bandwidth

   • The amount of data that can be sent or received in a given time
   • Measured in bits per second
     • Bit rate
   • Like a pipe, the bigger the pipe the more water can get to the other end

2. Number of users

   • Too many users can slow down the network if there is not enough BANDWIDTH
   • More traffic because there are more users
   • Higher collision rate

3. Wires

   • Wired connections have a higher bandwidth than wireless
   • Fiber optic cables have a higher bandwidth than copper cables
     • The quality of material used and the length of the cable affect the quality of the signal

4. Error rate

   • More reliable connections decrease the amount of errors. Data has to be sent until it arrives correctly so it will have to be sent more and it will take longer if the error rate is higher
   • Wireless connections are affected by...
     • Distance/range from the access point
     • Environmental factors

5. Latency

   • The time between sending and receiving data