What does the term "latency" mean in video streaming?

The term "latency" in video streaming specifically refers to the delay between the moment video is captured and the moment it is displayed. This is particularly critical in live monitoring scenarios such as security surveillance or live broadcasts where timely information is essential for effective decision-making. High latency may result in delays that can impede the viewer's ability to respond to events in real-time, making it a crucial factor in applications that require immediate action.

Understanding latency is vital for anyone working with live video feeds, as it can affect the performance and reliability of the system. While other terms in the question refer to aspects of video management, such as storage space, quality optimization, or data transfer speeds, none address the specific timing and responsiveness that latency encompasses in the context of video streaming.