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
Use wired connections for maximum throughput
Update network equipment firmware
User Impact
Large downloads
Lower throughput means longer download times
Streaming
Insufficient throughput causes buffering
Technical Details
Formula:
Throughput = Bandwidth - (Protocol overhead + Network losses)