In general, the subject matter described in this disclosure can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products for adapting data rate. The method includes receiving a data transmission at a data rate, identifying a first quantity of packets that were not adequately received, and using the first quantity to increase a packet loss level. A second quantity of improper bits in those packets that were adequately received at the data rate are identified, and the second quantity is used to increase a bit error level. As a result of having determined that the first value does not satisfy a first criterion for reducing the rate of the data transmission and that the second value does satisfy a second criterion for increasing the rate of the data transmission, an instruction is sent for causing the sending device to increase the rate of the data transmission.