In SEO and Internet Working, Low Latency Makes A Difference

Latency simply means delay, and on the Internet, it usually relates to data transfer. Usually, latency in the data transfer between the server and the computer is measured in the time taken for the data to reach the desired end.

For example, a user sends a query from the front end to the server at the backend. If there is considerable delay the user moves on to another website resulting in a bounce rate. A high bounce rate is bad for the website in the discussion here, and it results in the ranking going lower down. This action and response are highly important for website owners who make immense efforts to maintain low latency.

Importance of Latency Factor

Latency does not only impact simple connections between a computer and hosting server, it is a major issue between two interconnected servers and a huge server network. The latency factor has become more important as it plays a role in IoT, cloud server applications, and the usual business functions like simple websites and eCommerce sites. The delay or lag time in data transfers can cause grave inefficiencies and eventual failure. Thus, companies or their agencies try their best to keep latency low. 

Low latency is crucial in some cases:

•             Real-Time Data Management

•             Streaming Online Applications

.              API Integration

•             Video Enabled Remote  Operations

In the case of real-time data management, the data is obtained from diverse sources. These could be transactional databases, software, cloud hosting, and sensors. Real-time applications, like auctions, online gaming, and betting. Accuracy in information retrieval is vital where real-time operations are required. Network latency that is not smooth can cause huge problems. In the case of API, Network latency can cause problems as two systems try to communicate and cause problems in the process. Network latency can cause problems during remote video operations.

Causes

Latency is purely a game of query by the client or computer and response by the server. In what seems to be a simple affair a lot many devices and applications are involved. Some of the devices involved are modems, routers, switches, firewalls, and links such as cables or wireless transmissions. Data hops as packets between these devices before it reaches the client.  The packets are sent over cable or wireless transmission media. In this complex system, just anything can go wrong and create problems.

• Server Performance
• Data Volume
• Network Hops
• Data Travel Distance
• Transmission Medium.

Slow servers are a major problem further compounded by poor performance. Network devices have limited capacity, and heavy transmission loads can slow transmission.  Likewise, a high number of hops can slow down the process.  The main cause is a multiple number of router hops that are increased. Long distances can slow down transmission. Besides latency created by several mediums like optical fiber cable, even wireless transmission can slow down the process.

Hence there are many factors as described above that can negatively impact low latency. Thus, data transmission is vital. Thus it is important for SEO and all web development agencies to keep these factors in the picture.