Network latency is the time for a packet to go from source to destination and back. It adds up (DNS, TCP, TLS, server processing) and affects user experience and API performance. Placing servers close to users or partners and choosing a good provider reduces latency.
Where latency comes from
- DNS: Resolution time before the connection.
- Connection: Round-trip to establish TCP and TLS.
- Server: Processing time on your app and DB.
- Geography: Physical distance; expect roughly 1 ms per 100 km of fiber (ballpark).
Reducing any of these improves total response time.
How to improve it
- Place servers near users or partners: Choose a region or data center that minimizes round-trip time.
- Use latency checks and traceroutes to compare regions and providers before committing.
- CDN and edge: For static or cacheable content, serve from the edge close to the user.
- Tier-III in multiple regions: If you serve globally, consider presence in more than one region.
Summary
Latency affects UX and API performance. Minimize it by locating servers close to users, using CDN where it helps, and choosing providers with low-latency paths. Test and compare regions.
