Fidamen

Convert Bits per Second to Gigabits per Second - Data Transfer Converter

This converter converts data transfer rates expressed in bits per second (bps) into gigabits per second (Gbps) using the SI (decimal) definition of the prefix Giga = 10^9. It is intended for engineering, network planning, and measurement tasks where standard decimal prefixes are expected.

By default the tool uses the decimal (SI) relationship: 1 Gbps = 1,000,000,000 bps. For contexts that require binary prefixes (Gibibit, GiB) the converter includes notes and alternative formulas showing the 2^30 relationship used by IEC/ISO standards.

Updated Nov 9, 2025QA PASS — golden 25 / edge 120Run golden-edge-2026-01-23

Governance

Record f6c2d8fac95c • Reviewed by Fidamen Standards Committee

Interactive Converter

Convert between bit per second and gigabit per second with precision rounding.

Quick reference table

Bit per SecondGigabit per Second
BPS 1 bps0 Gbps
BPS 5 bps0 Gbps
BPS 10 bps0 Gbps
BPS 25 bps0 Gbps
BPS 50 bps0 Gbps
BPS 100 bps0 Gbps

Methodology

The conversion applies the International System of Units (SI) decimal prefix 'Giga' which equals 10^9. This is the convention used by networking standards, many vendors, and official metrology guidance.

When users require a binary-prefix alternative, the IEC standard defines 'gibi' (Gi) where 1 Gibit = 2^30 bits ≈ 1,073,741,824 bits. We provide both forms so you can confirm results against measurement devices or documentation that use binary prefixes.

Practical note for measurements: instrument reporting, firmware rounding, or packet-overhead can cause reported throughput to differ from theoretical conversions. For traceable calibration and test-method guidance consult NIST and FCC recommendations referenced below.

Worked examples

1,000,000,000 bps → 1 Gbps (decimal)

10,000,000 bps → 0.01 Gbps

1,073,741,824 bps → 1 Gibit/s (1 Gibps, binary definition ≈ 1.0737 Gbps decimal)

125,000,000 bytes per second → 1 Gbps (125,000,000 B/s × 8 = 1,000,000,000 bps)

F.A.Q.

What's the exact relationship between bps and Gbps?

Using SI (decimal) prefixes: 1 Gbps = 1,000,000,000 bps (10^9). For binary-prefix contexts, 1 gibibit per second (Gibps) = 2^30 bits = 1,073,741,824 bps.

When should I use decimal Gbps vs binary Gibps?

Use decimal Gbps (10^9) for networking specifications, service-level agreements, and most vendor documentation. Use binary Gibps (2^30) only when the documentation or measurement system explicitly references IEC binary prefixes (Gi).

How do I convert bits to bytes and relate GB/s to Gbps?

There are 8 bits in a byte. To convert bps to bytes per second, divide by 8. To convert gigabytes per second (GB/s, decimal) to gigabits per second (Gbps), multiply GB/s by 8 (1 GB/s = 8 Gbps, decimal).

Why might my measured throughput not match the converted number?

Real-world throughput differs due to protocol overhead (headers, acknowledgements), link-layer framing, device CPU limits, and measurement tool rounding. Also check whether the tool reports decimal or binary prefixes and whether it reports line-rate vs payload rate.

Are there authoritative references for these conversions?

Yes. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) documents SI prefixes and recommended usage; the IEC and ISO set binary-prefix standards. See the citation list for direct references.

How should I report results for regulatory or procurement documents?

Report the unit system you used (decimal vs binary) and include the conversion factor. For procurement and compliance, follow the specific regulatory or contract wording; many agencies and vendors expect SI/decimal prefixes.

Do measurement instruments need calibration for data-rate tests?

Yes. For repeatable, traceable measurements, use calibrated test equipment and documented test procedures. NIST and FCC provide guidance on test methodologies and traceability for communications measurements.

Sources & citations

Further resources

Versioning & Change Control

Audit record (versions, QA runs, reviewer sign-off, and evidence).

Record ID: f6c2d8fac95c

What changed (latest)

v1.0.0 • 2025-11-09 • MINOR

Initial publication and governance baseline.

Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.

Public QA status

PASS — golden 25 + edge 120

Last run: 2026-01-23 • Run: golden-edge-2026-01-23

Engine

v1.0.0

Data

Baseline (no external datasets)

Content

v1.0.0

UI

v1.0.0

Governance

Last updated: Nov 9, 2025

Reviewed by: Fidamen Standards Committee (Review board)

Credentials: Internal QA

Risk level: low

Reviewer profile (entity)

Fidamen Standards Committee

Review board

Internal QA

Entity ID: https://fidamen.com/reviewers/fidamen-standards-committee#person

Semantic versioning

  • MAJOR: Calculation outputs can change for the same inputs (formula, rounding policy, assumptions).
  • MINOR: New features or fields that do not change existing outputs for the same inputs.
  • PATCH: Bug fixes, copy edits, or accessibility changes that do not change intended outputs except for previously incorrect cases.

Review protocol

  • Verify formulas and unit definitions against primary standards or datasets.
  • Run golden-case regression suite and edge-case suite.
  • Record reviewer sign-off with credentials and scope.
  • Document assumptions, limitations, and jurisdiction applicability.

Assumptions & limitations

  • Uses exact unit definitions from the Fidamen conversion library.
  • Internal calculations use double precision; display rounding follows the unit's configured decimal places.
  • Not a substitute for calibrated instruments in regulated contexts.
  • Jurisdiction-specific rules may require official guidance.

Change log

v1.0.0 • 2025-11-09 • MINOR

Initial publication and governance baseline.

Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.

Areas: engine, content, ui • Reviewer: Fidamen Standards Committee • Entry ID: e36f2a9d3018