Network: Packet Loss

 

    When accessing the Internet or a network, small units of data called packets are sent and received. When one or more of these packets do not reach their intended destination, it is called packet loss. For users, packet loss is seen as network disruption, slow service, or even a complete loss of network connectivity.

    Any application can be disrupted by packet loss, but the most likely victims are applications that rely on real-time packet processing, such as video, audio and game programs.

    Today, the network is the foundation of business performance. When the network encounters performance problems, it is ultimately the business that suffers. There are a number of operational issues that can affect network performance. Packet loss is one of the most common. But what is packet loss, how is it caused, and what can you do to prevent it and keep your corporate network running smoothly?

Causes of packet loss:

Network congestion: 

    As the name implies, congestion occurs when a network becomes saturated with traffic and reaches its maximum capacity. Packets must wait their turn to be delivered, but if the connection is so far behind that it can't store any more packets, they will simply be discarded or ignored so that the network can catch up. The good news is that today's applications are able to gracefully handle discarded packets by automatically resending the data or slowing down transfer speeds.

Software bugs:

    Software bugs are another common cause of packet loss. If rigorous testing has not been done or if bugs have been introduced as a result of software updates, this could result in unexpected or unanticipated network behavior. Sometimes rebooting can solve this problem, but more often the software will need to be updated or fixed.

Security Threats:

    In addition to software-related problems, packet loss can also be caused by a security breach. One such attack that has become popular with cybercriminals in recent years is the DDoS attack. In an attack, a malicious user takes control of a router and sends commands to drop packets into a data stream. If you suddenly notice high rates of packet loss on your network, it may be a cyberattack in progress.

Wifi networks:

    Wifi, it is quite normal for packets to be lost on Wi-Fi networks, as wireless networks are open to certain unpredictable and/or uncontrollable elements, such as interference from other wireless networks, distance, medieval walls, etc.

Damaged material:

    Packet loss can also be caused by a damaged network card; damaged ports or connections, bad router or bad wiring in your office or building.

How to prevent package loss?

    There are several ways to solve packet loss problems, and the solution you choose will depend on the specific reason for the packet loss. In cases where the hardware is defective, it will usually need to be replaced with new equipment capable of handling maximum throughput. If network congestion is the cause, you have several options. Increasing the bandwidth of your link can help reduce congestion. You may also want to consider a Quality of Service (QoS) solution that allows you to set a higher priority for any real-time traffic on your network.