Latency to Distance Calculator
Estimate the theoretical distance to a server based on latency.
Calculator Inputs
Results
Enter latency to estimate distance.
From Milliseconds to Miles
This calculator estimates the physical distance a signal could travel based on a given latency (or ping) time. It assumes the signal travels through a medium like fiber optic cable (typically at about 67% the speed of light) and calculates the one-way distance for a given round-trip time. It provides a fascinating look at the physical limits of network communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this calculator for?
This tool provides a theoretical estimate of the maximum physical distance between you and a server based on your ping (latency). It calculates how far a signal could travel in half the ping time (one-way trip) through a medium like fiber optic cable.
Why is the real-world distance often shorter?
This calculation assumes a direct, straight-line path. In reality, internet traffic travels through multiple routers, switches, and varied cable paths, which adds to the delay. Therefore, your ping reflects a distance that is often much greater than the straight-line geographical distance to the server.