What is a traceroute test?

A traceroute test is a network diagnostic tool that maps the path data packets take from your computer to a destination server. It works by sending packets with increasing Time-to-Live (TTL) values, causing each router along the path to respond with its identity. The test reveals every hop (router) between you and the destination, showing IP addresses, response times, and identifying potential bottlenecks or failures. This is invaluable for troubleshooting network latency, packet loss, and routing problems, as it pinpoints exactly where delays or failures occur along the network path.