A business can measure network performance by tracking speed, reliability, and data flow. To further enhance it, you could tweak settings, upgrade hardware, or prioritize essential tasks. Keeping an eye on network performance metrics helps you spot problems early and provides a clearer picture of where things stand.

We aim to unwrap:

• What you need to understand about network performance
• Tips on how to measure and improve your network performance
• Future trends to that could enhance network performance
• What Meter can do to help

What is network performance?

Network performance is a measurement of how effectively a network supports data transfer and communication needs. Businesses can assess it by analyzing certain metrics to reveal potential bottlenecks. Addressing these issues often involves adjusting configurations, improving infrastructure, or better managing traffic.

What makes a network perform at its best?

Getting the most out of your network comes down to how fast, dependable, and efficient it is. We'll need to take a look at each one to see how they make sense as a whole.

Speed that keeps up with your business

Speed is how fast your network can move data from point A to point B. It’s measured using bandwidth and throughput. Bandwidth is the maximum capacity for data transfer. Throughput is the actual amount of data successfully sent.

When your network is fast, everything feels easier—apps load quicker, files transfer without delays, and people stop grumbling about lag.

A reliable network you can count on

Reliability is about your network staying available and working right. Network metrics like uptime and packet loss help you track this. Uptime is how often the network is up and running. Packet loss refers to how much data gets lost along the way.

A dependable network reduces downtime, avoids disruptions, and makes sure everyone can get their work done without complications.

Efficiency that minimizes delays

Efficiency measures how well your network handles data without wasting time or resources. Key metrics to watch concerning efficiency are latency and jitter. Latency tracks how long it takes data to travel. Jitter measures inconsistencies in delivery times.

Freezing video calls, laggy files, and other disruptions are nobody’s favorite. An efficient network keeps delays to a minimum, making everything easier for users.

How to measure network performance

Measuring network performance means keeping tabs on multiple metrics. These numbers, or key performance indicators (KPIs) tell you how well your network is handling its job and where it might need a little help.

Use tools that make your life easier

Network monitoring tools are the superheroes of performance tracking. They give you real-time insights, highlight problems, and help you fine-tune your setup. Platforms like Meter combine hardware (think switches and access points) with easy-to-use software to keep your network running like a pro.

Built-in diagnostics can do wonders

Good old Ping and Traceroute may not be fancy, but they get the job done. Ping tells you how fast data gets from point A to point B, while Traceroute maps out the exact journey, pointing out any trouble spots along the way.

Test regularly to stay ahead

Networks are like cars—they need regular checkups to maintain peak performance. Running periodic tests lets you spot issues before they spiral out of control. Plus, you’ll know if your network can handle a sudden traffic spike without breaking a sweat.

Keep an eye on traffic patterns

Traffic analyzers help you figure out how devices are using your network. They show which areas are getting slammed with traffic and help you redirect the flow to avoid jams. It’s like being the traffic cop for your data.

All-in-one tools are next-level

Why juggle many tools when you can use one that does it all? All-in-one platforms:

• Track performance
• Manage security
• Keep an eye on your assets

Tools like Meter bring it all together with automated monitoring and detailed reports. Network management has never been less stressful.

Find those Wi-Fi dead zones

Wi-Fi coverage scanners help you uncover areas where your signal isn't cutting it. It's a lifesaver for big offices or sprawling spaces where reliable connectivity is needed. No more awkward pauses on video calls because someone wandered into a Wi-Fi void.

Emerging metrics to watch for

The way we measure network performance is evolving, and new metrics are giving us a deeper understanding of how networks operate. Let’s look at some emerging metrics that go beyond the basics and provide valuable insights.

Application response time (ART)

Network speed matters, but so does how fast an application reacts to a user’s actions. ART measures the time between a user request and the app’s response. Measuring ART can highlight delays that might affect productivity or user satisfaction.

Data retransmission rate

The data retransmission rate measures how often data packets are sent again due to errors or loss during transmission. High rates of retransmission can drag down performance and point to deeper reliability issues. It’s like the network repeatedly saying, “Hold on, let me try that again.”

Traffic quality index (TQI)

TQI evaluates the quality of traffic flowing through your network. It considers factors like latency, jitter, and packet loss in one detailed score. Think of it as a network performance GPA—except this one tells you how ready your network is for real-world demands.

Energy efficiency metrics

Sustainability is becoming a bigger focus, and networks are now measured on how efficiently they use energy. Metrics that track power consumption compared to data output are gaining importance, especially in data centers. Reducing energy use isn’t just good for the environment—it also lowers costs.

User experience index (UXI)

The UXI combines metrics like latency and ART to evaluate how users interact with the network. It focuses on the user's perspective to show if the network meets expectations for reliability and responsiveness.

Device health scores

Keeping an eye on hardware health helps prevent unexpected failures. Device health scores assess the condition of important components, like routers and servers, and offer early warnings when something might break down.

Practical ways to improve your network performance

Improving network performance shouldn't be about chasing perfection. Instead, focus on getting things to work better, faster, and more consistently. No matter the complication, there are simple yet effective ways to make your network perform like a pro.

Start with better hardware

Outdated hardware is like trying to run modern software on a flip phone—it’s not going to work well. Upgrading to modern routers, switches, and access points will let you handle faster speeds and larger traffic volumes. Devices that support standards like Wi-Fi 6 and later offer higher efficiency and better performance for high-traffic environments.

Fine-tune your network settings

A few small adjustments can make a big difference. Start by segmenting your network with VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), which separate different types of traffic to reduce congestion. Check your device settings to minimize interference and improve coverage. Keeping your firmware updated is another simple but effective way to boost performance while also staying secure.

Keep an eye on your network with monitoring tools

If you don’t know what’s going wrong, you can’t fix it. Network monitoring tools help you:

• Track traffic patterns
• Detect issues early
• Keep an eye on key metrics

Real-time alerts can save you from a network crash at the worst possible time. Not to mention the insights you gain can guide smarter decisions about upgrades or configuration changes.

Strengthen security to protect performance

Malware and intrusions are security risks that can hog bandwidth and slow everything down. To stay ahead of threats:

• Invest in strong firewalls
• Routinely update your security systems
• Run vulnerability assessments

A secure network is a safer network, but it’s also faster and more reliable.

Use bandwidth wisely

Bandwidth isn’t infinite, and how you allocate it matters. Tools that manage bandwidth distribution can see to it that critical applications get priority over less important activities. Consider restricting or limiting non-business-related traffic, like streaming or gaming during work hours. With smarter allocation, everyone gets the speed they need when they need it.

Continue to test performance

Regular testing is like taking your network in for a health check. Performance tests reveal weak spots before they cause major problems. Use benchmarking tools to measure critical network metrics and compare the results over time. When you see something off, adjust your setup to stay ahead of the curve.

Optimize your wireless network setup

A poor Wi-Fi setup can ruin everything, no matter how good your hardware is. Conduct a site survey to identify dead zones and areas with interference. Maintain better coverage by placing access points strategically. Additionally, use dual-band or tri-band access points to keep traffic flowing by separating different types of data.

Document everything

Good documentation isn’t glamorous, but it’s amazing to have when problems arise. Keep a clear record of your network layout, device configurations, and any performance benchmarks. When you or your team need to troubleshoot, having everything mapped out saves time and frustration.

Offload some of the workload to the cloud

Moving certain services to the cloud can reduce the burden on your local network. Of course, it needs to be done thoughtfully. Use cloud services for non-critical applications or large-scale storage, and configure them to optimize performance. Monitoring how these services interact with your network enables you to gain benefits without creating new bottlenecks.

Train your team to be network-friendly

The people using your network can either make or break its performance. Educate your team on best practices, like avoiding bandwidth-heavy activities during busy times. Encourage them to report issues quickly and hold regular training sessions to reinforce proper usage and security habits.

Test and upgrade your cables

Sometimes, the simplest solution lies in the cables you’re using. Outdated ethernet cables can bottleneck your network, even with the best hardware. Switch to Cat6 or Cat7 cables for higher speeds and better interference resistance. A small investment in cables can make a noticeable difference.

Implement redundancy for critical components

No network is immune to problems. The likelihood of something going wrong is inevitable. Setting up redundant systems, like backup servers or failover connections, keeps your network running even when hardware fails. Redundancy adds an extra layer of reliability and helps reduce downtime.

Reduce network congestion with smarter scheduling

Not all tasks need to happen during peak hours. Schedule data backups, large downloads, or updates for off-peak times to avoid clogging your network. With better scheduling, critical operations during busy periods won’t have to fight for bandwidth.

Improve physical placement of devices

Settings and software are a big part of network performance. However, location can be just as important. Place all routers and access points in open spaces, away from thick walls or electronic interference. Proper placement can significantly improve signal strength and overall coverage.

Keep your power supply stable

Unstable power can wreak havoc on network devices, leading to inconsistent performance. Use uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to keep critical devices running during outages and protect equipment from power surges. Reliable power means a more stable network.

Future trends that could help measure and improve network performance

The way we measure and improve network performance is changing fast with new technologies and smarter tools. Businesses depend on their networks more than ever for big data transfers, video calls, and everything in between. Let’s look at what’s coming next and how these advancements can make managing your network simpler (and maybe even less stressful).

Advanced analytics and predictive maintenance

Networks are getting more complicated, but advanced analytics help break down all the data they create. They show where the network might slow down or where problems could appear.

Predictive maintenance takes it further by using past data to predict when parts, like switches or routers, might fail. Fixing or replacing hardware before it breaks keeps the network working properly and avoids bigger problems later.

Cloud-based network management

Cloud networking solutions are becoming a big part of improving network performance. Instead of depending only on local equipment, businesses now use cloud-based tools to monitor, manage, and improve their networks.

Cloud platforms make life easier in a few ways. They give you one place to check how your network is doing, which is especially helpful for large or spread-out networks. They also let you fix problems remotely, which is a huge help for companies with multiple offices or remote workers. On top of that, cloud tools can work with other systems to simplify how you handle both performance and security.

Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing

With more IoT devices showing up everywhere, networks are dealing with a huge number of connected gadgets. All these devices create tons of data, and if it’s not managed well, it can overwhelm traditional networks.

Edge computing steps in to help by handling data closer to where it’s created. This takes pressure off central servers and speeds up response times. For networks, it means faster data transfers and lower latency. Edge computing also lets you measure performance in specific areas of the network, giving you better insights and more control.

Self-healing networks

Self-healing networks are designed to fix themselves using automation and cognitive computing. They detect and resolve issues in real time by rerouting traffic or repairing broken connections without any manual effort.

While still an emerging technology, self-healing networks have the potential to significantly reduce downtime and simplify troubleshooting. Businesses benefit by relying less on IT for routine fixes and gaining more time to focus on growth and priorities.

5G and beyond

The rise of 5G networks is changing the way we connect. With faster speeds, lower delays, and support for more devices, 5G opens up new ways to measure and improve network performance.

A 5G network can handle advanced tools like real-time analytics and augmented reality while keeping performance steady. Looking ahead, future wireless standards will build on this, making networks even faster and more capable.

Zero-touch provisioning and automation

Manual setup and maintenance for networks are quickly fading away. Zero-touch provisioning allows devices to configure themselves as soon as they connect, saving time and reducing errors.

Automation also improves ongoing performance monitoring. Networks can adjust settings automatically based on traffic patterns, simplifying management and keeping performance levels high with minimal intervention.

Blockchain for network security and transparency

Blockchain isn’t just for cryptocurrency anymore. It’s being explored as a tool to boost network security and performance. By creating a secure and transparent record of network activity, blockchain makes it easier to spot unauthorized access or other problems.

Its decentralized design also helps with reliability by removing single points of failure. While still evolving, blockchain shows real promise for making networks safer and more efficient. It’s a trend worth watching as it continues to develop.

The cost of ignoring network performance

Ignoring network performance is like skipping oil changes for your car—things might seem fine at first, but problems will catch up with you. And when they do, the costs can be higher than you expect. Let’s break it down.

More than time—downtime will cost money

When your network is down, everything grinds to a halt:

• Employees can’t access critical tools
• Customers can’t reach your services
• Operations come to a standstill

The average cost of IT downtime is steep, and for businesses that rely on constant connectivity, even a short outage can mean lost revenue and frustrated clients.

Productivity takes a hit

Slow or unreliable networks waste time. Employees get stuck waiting for files to upload, apps to load, or meetings to stop buffering. Over time, those delays add up, eating into productivity and leaving everyone a little more frustrated than they should be.

Customers won’t stick around

Patience is a virtue, and customers expect things to work—and fast. If your e-commerce platform lags or your customer service chat tool disconnects, they’re likely to take their business elsewhere. A poor network experience can damage your reputation and hurt customer loyalty.

Security risks increase

Neglecting network performance often means overlooking security as well. Hackers are all too happy to exploit the vulnerabilities that come from:

• Outdated hardware
• Unpatched firmware
• Congested traffic

A network breach doesn’t just slow you down—it can lead to data loss, legal troubles, and a whole lot of headaches.

The ripple effect of inefficiency

A poorly performing network affects your ability to scale and adapt in the future. Whether it’s onboarding new tools or supporting remote teams, a network that’s behind the curve will hold your business back.

Boost your network performance with Meter

Managing a network can be complex, but Meter simplifies the process by handling routine tasks, allowing your team to focus on strategic priorities. With tailored tools and support, Meter guarantees optimal network performance and reliability.

Here’s how Meter enhances network performance:

• Automated performance monitoring: Meter's platform provides real-time monitoring, identifying and addressing issues proactively to prevent operational disruptions.
• Advanced hardware solutions: Meter offers high-quality hardware, including access points and high-performance switches, designed for durability and efficiency.
• Expert configuration and support: Meter's team manages network design, installation, and maintenance, ensuring your network is optimized for peak performance.
• Scalable and flexible design: Meter's solutions are built to scale with your business, adapting to evolving demands without compromising performance.
• Effortless integration: Meter's services integrate easily with your existing infrastructure, minimizing disruptions during deployment and operation.
• Enhanced security measures: Meter enhances DNS security by protecting against threats like DNS spoofing and cache poisoning.

Schedule a demo today and see how Meter can optimize your network.