The word “bandwidth” may often be heard when discussing internet speed. This term also often appears when discussing Virtual Private Servers (VPS). But even so, there are still those who do not understand what bandwidth is. In this article, you will learn everything about bandwidth, from its definition, uses to its types.
Definition of Bandwidth
In the internet world, the definition of bandwidth is the capacity to exchange or transfer data between the server and the recipient which is calculated in bits per second (bps). The definition of bandwidth refers to the range of signal frequencies in the transmission medium.
If you don’t understand, you can imagine bandwidth like a water pipe. The larger the diameter of the pipe, the greater the volume of water that can pass through the pipe at the same time. The speed of water reaching the end of the pipe will decrease if along the pipe line are added branches to direct the water to other destinations. These branches are other devices used in one internet channel.
In addition, in computer networks, the definition of bandwidth often refers to the data transfer rate, which is the calculation of the amount of data from one location to another within a certain time which is both calculated in bps units. This is the maximum capacity value that can be used to send data in seconds on one line.
Multiple Types of Bandwidth
Based on the form of technology, there are two types of bandwidth, namely analog and digital. Digital bandwidth types can provide information about the capacity that is shown digitally. The data can be in the form of capacity in a transmission line, using either wired or wireless, which is measured in bits per second (bps).
On the other hand, there is also analog bandwidth which calculates how much information can be transmitted by a network in a given time. The difference with digital, this type of bandwidth calculates data in units of Hertz (Hz) or cycles per second.
Bandwidth Usage
Having an important role in terms of sending data, then what are the uses of bandwidth in the internet network or computer network? Here are some bandwidth uses that you need to know.
1. Media Sending Data
The main use of bandwidth is to transfer data from one location to another. Just like the analogy of the pipe above, bandwidth does have a function similar to the function of a pipe in distributing water discharge. The data transfer process is transmitted via a LAN cable that interconnects a LAN connection with a computer device. But now, we can also find more innovative wireless LANs.
2. Data Transfer Speed Limiter
Bandwidth also functions as a barrier in a data transmission so that the distribution of data will run evenly. What’s more, there will be large data requests when you download. If it is not restricted, other users will experience data transfer delays, even not getting an internet connection at all. It’s like you clog the pipe that is used to drain the water.
3. Limitation of the amount of data sent
Apart from being a speed limiter in transferring data, another use of bandwidth is to limit the amount of data within a certain time. Usually, this is done by the hosting service or network administrator. For example, bandwidth providers limit the amount of data to a total of 200 GB per month, this 200 GB amount applies to all users, no matter how many devices are accessing.