How is the timeliness of packet delivery measured?

The timeliness of packet delivery is fundamentally measured by counting the packets that arrive after a specified deadline. This approach reflects how well a network or system meets its deadlines for data transmission. When packets are sent across a network, there are usually time-sensitive applications (like streaming video or online gaming) that require data to arrive promptly. If packets are delayed beyond their time window, they are considered late, which negatively impacts the user experience.

Using this method allows for quantifiable metrics regarding network performance. Analyzing the number of late packets enables network administrators to assess how efficiently the system is operating and identify potential issues that may require rectification. This metric is essential for applications where timing is crucial, allowing for adjustments in network management to ensure timely delivery.

The other options do not adequately represent the concept of timeliness in packet delivery. For instance, the number of packets delivered does not account for when they arrive, and the size of packets does not influence their delivery time directly. Lastly, while packet speed is an important factor in network performance, it does not directly measure timeliness as it does not indicate whether packets are arriving before or after the deadline.