Ping refers to the delay in milliseconds (ms) that data takes to travel between your device and a server, influencing the responsiveness of online activities like gaming and video calls. A low ping (under 50 ms) indicates quick data transmission, leading to smoother experiences, while high ping values result in delays and lag. Factors affecting ping include distance, network congestion, server location, and routing. It's distinct from internet speed and can vary even with high-speed connections. Ping is crucial for real-time interactions, and some internet plans highlight low ping for activities like gaming, but other factors like server location also impact it significantly.