Jitter is a measure of the variability in the latency of a network connection. In other words, it measures how much the latency (or delay) of a connection varies over time.
It is an important factor to consider when evaluating the performance of an internet connection, especially for applications like gaming and video conferencing that require low latency and consistent connection.
What is Jitter on a Speed Test?
When you perform a speed test, it is one of the metrics that is measured along with download and upload speeds. It is typically measured in MS and indicates how much the latency of a connection varies over time.
A low jitter value is desirable, as it means that the latency of the connection is consistent, while a high value indicates that the latency is variable.
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What Causes Jitter?
There are several factors that can cause it on an internet connection. Some of the most common causes include:
Network congestion
When there is a lot of traffic on the network, it can cause delays in the delivery of data, which can cause it.
Distance
The further the data has to travel, the more time it takes for it to get there. This can result in a jitter if the distance between the sender and receiver is large.
Router or modem problems
Routers and modems can be the cause of jitter if they are not functioning properly. For example, if the router’s buffer is too small, it can cause it by causing data to be dropped.
Interference from other devices
Other devices that use the same frequency as your internet connection, such as a cordless phone or a microwave oven, can cause interference that results in a jitter.
Outdated hardware
Older hardware, such as modems or routers, may not be able to handle the demands of modern internet usage, which can result in a jitter.
What is a Good Jitter Value for the Internet?
A good value for the internet is typically considered to be anything less than 10 ms. This value is low enough to ensure a smooth and consistent connection, but it is also high enough to allow for some variation in latency.
How to Reduce Jitter on the Internet
There are several steps you can take to reduce it on your internet connection. Some of the most effective methods include:
Upgrading your hardware
Upgrading your modem or router to a more modern model can help reduce it by improving the performance of your network.
Moving router or modem
Moving your router or modem to a more central location in your home or office can help reduce jitter by reducing the distance the data has to travel.
Reducing network congestion
Reducing network congestion can help reduce it by allowing data to be transmitted more quickly and consistently.
Prioritizing traffic
Some routers allow you to prioritize traffic, so you can give priority to applications that require a low-latency connection, such as gaming or video conferencing.
Switching to wired connection:
Switching to a wired connection can help reduce it by providing a more stable and consistent connection.
Does jitter affect internet speed?
It does not directly affect internet speed, which is typically measured in Mbps (megabits per second) or Gbps (gigabits per second) and indicates the amount of data that can be transferred over the internet connection in a given amount of time.
However, it can have an indirect impact on internet speed by affecting the quality of the connection. Its high values can result in a choppy and inconsistent connection, which can negatively impact the performance of applications that require a low-latency connection. This can lead to delays and other issues that can impact the overall internet speed experience.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, a jitter is an important factor to consider when evaluating the performance of an internet connection. It measures the variability in the latency of a connection and can have a significant impact on applications like gaming and video conferencing that require low latency and consistent connection.