What Does Packet Loss Mean?
In a packet-switched system, packet loss refers to the amount of data (number of packets) that fails to arrive at its intended destination. Network administrators consider this metric when looking at the efficacy and performance of data systems.
Techopedia Explains Packet Loss
Some administrators look at packet loss while doing different types of network monitoring or testing, but it can also be apparent to end users when significant loss is experienced. Some types of packet loss can lead to system errors in programs that are designed for a particular threshold of cohesive information. In audio or video communications, packet loss can lead to jitter or interruptions, or loss of service.