How to compare device latency
Manufacturer figures often describe a minimum under specific test conditions. Layer 1 switching, packet forwarding and firewall processing perform different work, so compare the specification notes as well as the number. Packet size, forwarding mode, transceivers and queuing can change the result.
These are the estimates used by the calculator. Where a source gives a range, threshold or alternative configuration, the notes provide that context. Check the linked documentation for your configuration and validate important designs with measurements of the actual network.
Build a complete path estimate
Use the network latency calculator to combine devices and links. For propagation over standard or hollow-core fiber, use the fiber latency calculator. Read more about our methodology and sources.