Throughput

performanceintermediate
actual speeddata transfernetwork efficiency

The actual amount of data successfully transferred over a network connection in a given time period.

Examples

File transfer

If you have 100 Mbps bandwidth but achieve 80 Mbps during a download, your throughput is 80 Mbps

Network testing

Speed tests measure throughput, not theoretical bandwidth

Common Misconceptions

  • Throughput is always less than bandwidth due to overhead and network conditions
  • Throughput and bandwidth are not the same thing

Optimization Tips

Minimize network congestion during important transfers

high impact

Use wired connections for maximum throughput

high impact

Update network equipment firmware

medium impact

User Impact

Large downloads

Lower throughput means longer download times

Streaming

Insufficient throughput causes buffering

Technical Details

Formula: Throughput = Bandwidth - (Protocol overhead + Network losses)