Definition - What does Capacity mean?
In the context of networks, capacity is the complex measurement of the maximum amount of data that may be transferred between network locations over a link or network path. Because of the amount of intertwined measurement variables and scenarios, actual network capacity is rarely accurate.
Capacity is also known as throughput.
Techopedia explains Capacity
Capacity depends on the following variables, which are never constant:
- Network engineering
- Subscriber services
- Rate at which handsets enter and leave a covered cell site area
Wireless carriers are pushed to increase network capacity to accommodate user demand for high-bandwidth services. Until recently, subscribers used wireless networks to make calls or send Short Message Service (SMS)/Multimedia Message Service (MMS) messages. Today, capacity is required to handle increased subscribers and additional services, including:
- Web browsing
- Facebook updates
- Digital file downloads, like e-books
- Streaming audio/video
- Online multiplayer games
Because of marginal network capacity costs, providers focus on offering packaged and a la carte services, such as location-based add-ons and products, like ring tones, to create additional revenue with negligible operational expense effect.
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