What is the term for the maximum amount of data that can theoretically be sent over a network link?

The term that refers to the maximum amount of data that can theoretically be sent over a network link is bandwidth. Bandwidth measures the capacity of the network connection, typically expressed in bits per second (bps). This metric determines the potential data transfer rate, indicating how much information can be pushed through the link simultaneously at any given time under ideal conditions.

In contrast, throughput refers to the actual amount of data that is successfully transferred over the network in a given time frame, which may be less than the bandwidth due to various factors such as network congestion or limitations in technology.

Latency is the time it takes for a packet of data to travel from source to destination. It is not a measure of how much data can be sent but rather how quickly it can be sent. Delay is a similar concept, often used interchangeably with latency, representing any wait time experienced in data transmission.

Understanding bandwidth as a theoretical calculation is essential, as it sets the stage for evaluating the effectiveness of a network and its ability to handle large volumes of data traffic based on its design and technology.