What Is Traceroute
Traceroute maps the path data packets take from your device to a destination server. It shows every intermediate router (hop) and the time each hop takes. This helps identify where network slowdowns happen. A high latency at a specific hop indicates a problem at that point in the network.
Reading Traceroute Results
Each line is a hop. The IP address or hostname is the router. The times show latency to that hop. Three time values are shown per hop. Asterisks mean the router did not respond. A sudden jump in latency at hop 5 or 6 often points to an ISP or backbone issue.
Using Traceroute for Troubleshooting
Use traceroute when websites are slow or unreachable. It tells you if the problem is inside your network, at your ISP, or at the destination. Compare traces to different destinations. If all traces show the same slow hop, that router is overloaded. Contact your ISP with the evidence.