Latency, in the context of computing and networking, refers to the time delay between the initiation of an action and the response to that action. It is the period between when a request is made and when a response is received. Low latency is crucial for applications that require real-time processing and immediate feedback.

Here are some specific contexts where latency is commonly discussed:

• Network latency: The time it takes for a packet of data to travel from its source to its destination. This includes delays caused by the length of the physical path the data travels, as well as delays introduced by network devices like routers and switches.

• Disk latency: The delay between a request for data and when the data is delivered by a storage device, like a hard drive or SSD.

• Application latency: The time from when a user initiates an action in a software application until the application responds to that action.

• Audio/video latency: In multimedia applications, latency refers to the delay between the input into an audio or video system and the time the output is rendered.

Factors that can contribute to latency include signal propagation time, the medium through which the data is being sent (such as fiber optics, wireless or copper cables), the quality of the connection, network congestion and the efficiency of the hardware and software handling the data.

Reducing latency is a common goal in the design of networks and systems, particularly in time-sensitive applications such as online gaming, stock trading platforms and real-time communication services. Low latency is essential for a responsive, seamless user experience.