Systems
Latency
Definition
Latency is the time delay between a user action and the glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term glossaryResponseA response is the data or result returned by a server after receiving a request.Open glossary term.
In practice
Measured in milliseconds and critical for real-time glossaryInteractionInteraction refers to any action a user takes within a product and how the system responds. It includes clicks, taps, gestures, and inputs that drive the user experience.Open glossary term and glossaryResponsivenessHow well a design adapts to different screen sizes.Open glossary term.
The reality
Even small increases in latency can significantly impact glossaryUser Experience (UX)User Experience (UX) refers to the overall experience a person has when interacting with a product, including usability, accessibility, and how it feels to use. It focuses on making products useful, usable, and enjoyable.Open glossary term.
Plain English
The delay before something happens.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is latency?
It is the delay between a glossaryRequestA request is an action sent from a client to a server asking for data or a service.Open glossary term and glossaryResponseA response is the data or result returned by a server after receiving a request.Open glossary term.
Why is latency important?
It affects how responsive a glossarySystemA system is a collection of interconnected components that work together to achieve a specific function or outcome.Open glossary term feels.
What causes high latency?
Network delays, processing time, and glossarySystem LoadSystem load refers to the amount of demand placed on a system at a given time.Open glossary term.
How do you reduce latency?
By optimising glossaryInfrastructureInfrastructure refers to the underlying systems and resources that support applications and services.Open glossary term and reducing processing time.
Related Services
Related Guides
Related Terms