What does bandwidth refer to in networking?

In networking, bandwidth specifically refers to the difference between the highest and lowest frequencies that a channel can transmit. This measurement is crucial because it defines the capacity of the medium to carry data. A greater bandwidth allows for more data to be transmitted at any given time, leading to faster communication speeds and better performance in data transfer.

The concept of bandwidth is often associated with the limits set by the technology used for transmission, such as coaxial cables, fiber optics, or wireless channels. Different technologies have different bandwidth capabilities, influencing the overall speed and efficiency of network communications.

Understanding bandwidth in this context is essential for network engineers and IT professionals, as it directly impacts network design, selection of hardware, and troubleshooting of connectivity issues. The focus on the frequency range helps distinguish the actual data transmission capacity from other related concepts, such as throughput, which measures the actual amount of data being sent successfully over time.