6-4 IPv6 Policing Explained
IPv6 Policing is a crucial aspect of Quality of Service (QoS) that ensures network traffic adheres to specified rate limits. By understanding and implementing IPv6 Policing, network administrators can manage bandwidth more effectively and prevent congestion. This webpage will delve into the key concepts of IPv6 Policing, including Traffic Classification, Rate Limiting, Marking, and Dropping.
1. Traffic Classification
Traffic Classification is the process of identifying and categorizing network traffic based on various criteria such as source and destination addresses, protocols, and ports. This step is essential for applying specific policing rules to different types of traffic.
Example: In a corporate network, VoIP traffic might be classified as high-priority, while file transfers are classified as low-priority. This classification allows the network to apply different policing rules to each type of traffic.
2. Rate Limiting
Rate Limiting involves setting a maximum rate at which traffic is allowed to flow. This ensures that no single type of traffic monopolizes the bandwidth, thereby maintaining network performance and preventing congestion.
Example: A network administrator might set a rate limit of 1 Mbps for P2P file-sharing traffic. This ensures that P2P traffic does not consume all the bandwidth, allowing other critical applications to function smoothly.
3. Marking
Marking involves tagging packets that exceed the specified rate limit with a specific value, such as a Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP) value. This tagging helps in identifying and managing the traffic that violates the rate limit.
Example: If a packet exceeds the rate limit for video streaming, it might be marked with a DSCP value of 0 (Best Effort), indicating that it should be given the lowest priority in the network.
4. Dropping
Dropping involves discarding packets that exceed the specified rate limit. This action prevents the network from becoming congested and ensures that critical traffic is not affected.
Example: In a network with limited bandwidth, packets from a high-bandwidth application like video streaming might be dropped if they exceed the rate limit. This ensures that other critical applications, such as VoIP, continue to function without interruption.
Understanding these concepts is essential for implementing effective IPv6 Policing. By mastering Traffic Classification, Rate Limiting, Marking, and Dropping, network administrators can ensure that their networks operate efficiently and provide the best possible service to critical applications and users.