Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Data streams refer to a continuous flow of data that is being transmitted or received. It can be thought of as a steady stream of information flowing from one point to another.
Bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given time. It determines the capacity of the "pipe" through which the data streams flow.
Latency: Latency is the delay between when data is sent and when it is received. It can be compared to the time it takes for water to travel through a long pipe before reaching its destination.
Packet: A packet is a unit of data that is transmitted over a network. It can be visualized as individual drops of water within the continuous stream, each containing specific information.