Internet Health
Packet Loss Test: Detect Dropped Network Packets
Packet loss occurs when data packets fail to reach their destination. Even 1% packet loss can severely impact gaming, video calls, and streaming quality. Our test sends rapid probes and measures how many packets are lost in transit.
Launch in Mission ControlWhat It Measures
Packet loss is the percentage of data packets that are sent but never arrive at their destination. It happens when network congestion, faulty hardware, or ISP issues cause packets to be dropped along the route between your device and the server.
How It Works
- Sends 30 rapid ping probes with a 2-second timeout per packet
- Staggers sends at 20ms intervals to stress-test the connection
- Counts successful responses vs timeouts
- Calculates loss percentage and assigns a grade (A through F)
Why It Matters
Packet loss is one of the most damaging network problems. A 2% packet loss rate can cut TCP throughput by over 30%. Video calls become pixelated, gaming becomes unplayable, and downloads slow to a crawl. Many users blame slow speeds when the real problem is packet loss.
Understanding Your Results
0% packet loss is ideal and expected on healthy connections. Up to 1% is tolerable for most uses. 2 to 5% causes noticeable quality issues. Above 5% indicates a serious network problem that needs immediate attention.
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Run Packet Loss Test Now →Frequently Asked Questions
What causes packet loss?
Common causes include network congestion during peak hours, faulty Ethernet cables, WiFi interference, overloaded routers, and ISP infrastructure problems. Old or damaged network equipment is a frequent culprit.
How much packet loss is acceptable?
For general browsing, up to 1% is acceptable. For gaming and video calls, any packet loss above 0.5% creates noticeable issues. Professional VoIP systems require 0% packet loss for clear call quality.
Can WiFi cause packet loss?
Yes, WiFi is a common source of packet loss. Interference from neighboring networks, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, and physical obstacles like walls all contribute to WiFi packet loss. Switching to a wired Ethernet connection often eliminates it.
How do I fix packet loss?
Start by testing with a wired Ethernet connection to rule out WiFi issues. Check and replace damaged cables. Restart your router and modem. If packet loss persists on a wired connection, contact your ISP as the problem is likely on their network.
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