Network Trace & MTR: Complete Guide to Network Path Analysis
Network path analysis is essential for diagnosing connectivity issues, identifying bottlenecks, and understanding how data travels across the internet. Our free MTR (My TraceRoute) tool combines the functionality of traceroute and ping to provide comprehensive network diagnostics.
Understanding Network Trace Results
Hop Number
Each hop represents a router or network device between source and destination.
Host/IP Address
The hostname or IP address of each network node in the path.
Loss %
Percentage of packets lost at each hop. High loss indicates network issues.
Latency (Avg/Best/Worst)
Round-trip time in milliseconds. Lower values indicate better performance.
Common Network Issues Detected
High Packet Loss
Indicates network congestion, faulty hardware, or configuration issues at specific hops.
Latency Spikes
Sudden increases in response time may indicate overloaded routers or long-distance routing.
Routing Loops
When packets circle between the same hops, indicating misconfigured routing tables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "* * *" mean in traceroute results?
Asterisks indicate that the hop didn't respond within the timeout period. This could mean the router is configured to not respond to ICMP packets, or there's a firewall blocking responses.
Why is my latency high at the first few hops?
High latency at initial hops usually indicates issues with your local network, ISP connection, or the first routing nodes. Check your modem, router, and contact your ISP if the issue persists.
What is acceptable packet loss?
Ideally, packet loss should be 0%. Loss under 1% is generally acceptable. Loss above 2-3% can noticeably affect VoIP, gaming, and video streaming quality.