What does the term "bandwidth" mean in telecommunications?

The term "bandwidth" in telecommunications refers to the maximum rate of data transfer across a network path. It is essentially a measurement of the amount of data that can be transmitted over a specific medium in a given amount of time, typically expressed in bits per second (bps). Higher bandwidth indicates a greater capacity to transfer data quickly, allowing for the smooth transmission of large amounts of information, such as streaming video or online gaming.

In contrast, the other options describe different aspects of telecommunications that do not define bandwidth itself. The physical distance data can travel pertains to the range of a network rather than its capacity. The type of data refers to the nature or format of the information being transmitted, such as audio or video, but does not relate to how fast or how much data can be sent. The cost associated with data transfer is an economic factor, but it does not influence the technical definition of bandwidth or its ability to handle data transmission rates.