Which aspect can contribute to increased latency on a network?

Which aspect can contribute to increased latency on a network?

• A. The type of network topology used
• B. The total number of network hops
• C. The speed of network devices
• D. The distance between endpoints

Answer: (B)

Increased latency on a network can be significantly influenced by the total number of network hops. Each network hop represents a point where data must be processed, whether it's a router, switch, or other network device. When data travels through multiple hops, it is subject to processing delays at each point, introducing additional time before the information reaches its final destination. The cumulative effect of these processing times at each hop contributes to a noticeable increase in latency. This factor is critical, especially in complex networks where data may traverse several devices before reaching the endpoint. Each additional device or segment that the data must pass through adds to the overall time it takes for signals to move from the source to the destination, therefore, the total number of hops directly correlates with the potential for increased latency in network communications.

Increased latency on a network can be significantly influenced by the total number of network hops. Each network hop represents a point where data must be processed, whether it's a router, switch, or other network device. When data travels through multiple hops, it is subject to processing delays at each point, introducing additional time before the information reaches its final destination.

The cumulative effect of these processing times at each hop contributes to a noticeable increase in latency. This factor is critical, especially in complex networks where data may traverse several devices before reaching the endpoint. Each additional device or segment that the data must pass through adds to the overall time it takes for signals to move from the source to the destination, therefore, the total number of hops directly correlates with the potential for increased latency in network communications.