What technology helps prioritize data packets in an IP network?

Quality of Service (QoS) is the technology designed to prioritize data packets in an IP network. It ensures that critical network traffic receives the necessary bandwidth and low latency needed for optimal performance, especially important for time-sensitive applications such as voice over IP (VoIP), video conferencing, and online gaming.

QoS achieves this prioritization by classifying traffic into different categories based on the importance or type of data. It uses a variety of mechanisms, such as traffic shaping, congestion management, and resource reservation, to guarantee that higher-priority packets, like those containing real-time audio or video, are transmitted more quickly than less urgent traffic. This is essential in maintaining the quality and reliability of delayed-sensitive communications over networks that may experience congestion.

Utilizing QoS helps network administrators manage bandwidth utilization more effectively, ensuring that users experience minimal interruptions and optimal service levels.