Visualising Internet Connectivity: RETN's RTT Map

In today's fast-paced digital world, the importance of a reliable and efficient network infrastructure cannot be overstated. As businesses and individuals increasingly rely on cloud-based applications, video conferencing, and real-time data transfer, network performance has become a critical factor in ensuring seamless connectivity and user experience. In this context, the RETN IP/MPLS (Real-Time Transport Protocol Monitoring and Analysis Platform) latency map, in short - RTT Map - found here https://rtt.retn.net/ - emerges as a user friendly visual tool, enabling anyone to view, plan and optimise network performance when it comes to choosing a network provider.

An RTT (Round-Trip Time) map, is a graphical representation of network latency or round-trip time between different locations on a network. It provides valuable insights into the performance and responsiveness of the network by visualising the time it takes for data packets to travel from one point to another and back. As well as showing you the routing for the main (quickest) and redundant path for your data transmission.

RTT is a critical metric in network performance evaluation because it directly impacts the user experience. Higher RTT values imply higher latency, which can result in slower data transfer, delays in loading web pages, and reduced responsiveness in real-time applications from video conferencing to online gaming.

To create an RTT map, network administrators typically deploy measurement tools and probes at various locations within the network. These tools continuously monitor the time taken for data packets to travel between these points, producing a matrix of RTT values.

The map itself can take various forms, such as a geographical map with coloured lines between regions representing different RTT values or a tabular representation showing RTT values between specific locations. However, it’s not all about speed. The displayed paths allow for quick identification of areas with alternative available backup routes, particularly important for businesses where constant availability is critical.

“If you want to get really technical…the higher the latency, the less throughput you actually get on your network service. RTT Maps can be powerful tools to establish the best routes for international traffic. Take a look at some examples in the RETN RTT Map! https://rtt.retn.net/ "William Manzione, Product Manager, RETN.