What is meant by the term 'latency' in computing?

The term 'latency' in computing refers to the time delay before a data transfer begins. It is a critical concept when discussing performance in networks, storage, and processing systems because it impacts how quickly data can be accessed or transmitted once a request is made.

In practical terms, latency measures the waiting period or delay experienced when sending data across networks or accessing system resources. This delay can be influenced by various factors such as physical distance, the speed of the components involved, and the processing time required before the actual transfer starts.

Understanding latency is crucial for evaluating system responsiveness, particularly in applications where timing is essential, such as online gaming or video conferencing. High latency can lead to noticeable delays, adversely affecting user experience and application performance. Thus, recognizing that latency specifically refers to the initial delay before data transfer commences helps distinguish it from other related concepts like bandwidth and overall transfer times.