Ping, jitter and packet loss explained

Understand the key network measurements behind call quality and real-time applications.

How it works

Ping estimates round-trip time to a chosen endpoint. Jitter measures variation in that delay, while packet loss measures data that never arrives.

Video calls may suffer more from jitter and packet loss than from a modest reduction in download speed. Wi-Fi interference, congestion and routing can all contribute.

What to keep in mind

Run multiple tests and note where and when problems occur. One fast result does not prove consistent connection quality.