Bandwidth

Bandwidth refers to the maximum volume of data that can be transmitted over a network connection within a given period of time. It is measured in bits per second, typically expressed as Mbit/s or Gbit/s. A distinction must be made between the theoretically available bandwidth and the throughput actually achieved, which is limited by protocol overhead, network utilisation, cabling quality and hardware. Usable bandwidth is also restricted by the weakest component along the transmission path. In practice, a distinction is drawn between the internet uplink, bandwidth within the local network and the capacity of individual ports. Alongside bandwidth, latency, packet loss and prioritisation through quality of service are decisive for stable network performance. Demand-based planning prevents bottlenecks as data volumes grow.