Instead, it carries error messages and other control information between devices to communicate things like redirects and domain name requests.

It uses (by default) a dedicated type of packet called ICMP, which, unlike other packet types, isn’t used to transport traditional data. Ping is lightweight and efficient - the mark of any great tool. Gettin’ ping-y with itįirst, let’s get one thing straight: Ping kicks ass. Sticking only to ping won’t cut it, which is why finding a tool that does more is almost always the best choice. There are more factors to network problems than just latency. In most cases, you might think you’re looking for a ping tool, but you’re actually looking for something else - something that can tell you why your network is having issues. Thinking only about ping is one of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to monitoring or troubleshooting a network, no matter your experience level. Ping alone is rarely enough to get you the information you need to fix things. Ping’s a big deal, but it isn’t the whole story. So, when your connection turns to crap, what’s the best ping tool for the job? It’s also the first place everyone goes when there’s a problem: “If my network’s busted, I need to ping it.” Ping - it’s one of, if not the most important and widely used network performance tests out there.

Best ping tool