Ping

Overview

A Packet Inter Network Groper (PING) is a standard software tool that is used to test network connections. A ping is frequently used as an Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) utility that explains whether a workstation can communicate with another machine. This software can be used for troubleshooting, testing connectivity, and determining response time. A ping test works by determining delays in communication between two or more computers on a network. Ping tests are especially important for online gaming and interactive applications. Tools come with networking and router software.

Most ping tools use Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) to send request messages to a targeted network address at periodic intervals of time. Tools measure the time taken for a response message to arrive. The results of the ping process can be stored in a text file.

These tools determine the number of times a request has been sent, the size of the request message, and the time taken to get a reply. Tools also indicate the number of hops (portion of path between source and destination) taken between the requesting and responding computers. In case the target computer does not give any response, an error message will display.

Benefits

Ping tools quickly check connectivity between systems and provide a straightforward way to quickly identify problems. Ping tests can check whether a host is reachable across an IP network and whether hardware is functioning properly. Pings tests are especially helpful with online multiplayer games and can estimate round trip time in milliseconds, record packet loss, and print statistical summaries.

How It Works

Four outcomes can result from a ping test. The machine might produce four replies, which indicates that the workstation is able to communicate with the specified host. The requests might time out, and no successful replies will occur. You might receive some replies, and others might time out due to bad network cabling, faulty hardware, or network congestion. You might also receive an error message.

The source host generates an Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) data unit. This message protocol is then encapsulated in an IP datagram (also known as ICMP Echo) with the proper source and destination IP address in the header. The source host notes the time in its clock and sends an echo reply to the destination. Each host then checks the destination address. If the destination does not match the local addresses, it is forwarded to the network where the IP address resides. The destination host then receives the message and finds the destination address in the IP datagram. The destination host creates and places its own IP address in the source IP address field, and the new IP datagram is routed back to the originator of the ping. The host receives it, notes the time on the clock, and finally prints the output information including the elapsed time.

Companies/Brands

Shareware Connection and Soft Specialist provide ping tools and utilities.