"Latency" refers to the delay that occurs during the transmission of data across networks. It is measured as the time it takes for a data packet to travel from its source to its destination, typically expressed in milliseconds (ms). High latency can negatively impact real-time applications, such as online gaming, video conferencing, or VoIP services, leading to noticeable delays and interruptions in communication. Reducing latency is crucial for improving user experiences, enhancing application performance, and maintaining efficiency in data transfer, particularly in scenarios requiring immediate feedback and interaction.