packetförluster

Packet loss refers to the transmission errors or failures that occur when data packets fail to reach their destination across a computer network. These packets are small units of data that are sent over networks like the internet. When a packet is lost, it means that information it was carrying is not delivered.

Several factors can cause packet loss. Network congestion is a common culprit; if too much data is being sent through a particular link or device, it can become overwhelmed, leading to dropped packets. Faulty network hardware, such as routers, switches, or network interface cards, can also contribute to packet loss. Wireless connections are particularly susceptible due to interference, distance from the access point, or signal obstructions. Software issues on either the sending or receiving device, or within network infrastructure, can also result in packets being discarded.

The impact of packet loss varies depending on the application. For real-time applications like voice calls or online gaming, even a small amount of packet loss can lead to noticeable disruptions, such as choppy audio, dropped connections, or lag. For applications like file transfers, where protocols can retransmit lost packets, the impact might be a slower download speed rather than an outright failure. Network administrators use various tools and techniques to diagnose and mitigate packet loss, including monitoring network performance and troubleshooting hardware or configuration issues.