How to Calculate Maximum Throughput

Calculate maximum throughput to examine how quickly the computer operates.

Throughput is an important term in computer networking as it determines how fast a message will be delivered. The maximum throughput is closely related to the channel capacity, which is the highest speed of delivery in a complex network. Calculating throughput can be accomplished through some basic formulations and knowledge of the network channel capacity.

Instructions

1. Find out your bandwidth size in terms of bits per second. You can obtain this information from your Internet service provider (ISP). Make sure that the data they provide is in terms of megabytes, which can then be converted using the calculator in the References section.

2. Determine the minimum latency between your computer and a Web page. On the Windows operating system, open the Command window (CMD). Next, type: tractert www.website.com, replacing any common website you use into that URL.

3. Note the time displayed in milliseconds. Several rows of different tests will appear; however, you should note the one with the shortest time, which indicates the lowest latency level.

4. Multiply the lowest latency time by the bandwidth to obtain the maximum throughput. You can convert the speed back into megabytes with the conversion calculator in the References section if necessary.

References

• Matisse.net: Bits Calculator
• Reliability HotWire: Throughput Analysis