7.2 Traffic Shaping Explained
Key Concepts
- Traffic Shaping
- Queue Types
- Bandwidth Limiting
- Priority Queuing
- Configuration and Setup
1. Traffic Shaping
Traffic shaping is a technique used to control the rate of data transmission in a network. It ensures that network resources are used efficiently by regulating the flow of traffic. Traffic shaping helps in preventing congestion and ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
Example: Think of traffic shaping as a traffic light system on a highway. Just as traffic lights control the flow of vehicles to prevent congestion, traffic shaping controls the flow of data to prevent network congestion.
2. Queue Types
Queue types define how packets are stored and processed in a network device. Common queue types include FIFO (First In, First Out), PQ (Priority Queue), and CBQ (Class-Based Queue). Each queue type has its own method of handling and prioritizing packets.
Example: Consider queue types as different lines at a grocery store. Just as some lines prioritize express checkout, some queue types prioritize certain types of packets, ensuring they are processed first.
3. Bandwidth Limiting
Bandwidth limiting is the process of setting a maximum rate at which data can be transmitted over a network. This ensures that no single application or user consumes all the available bandwidth, thereby preventing network congestion.
Example: Think of bandwidth limiting as a speed limit on a road. Just as a speed limit prevents vehicles from moving too fast and causing accidents, bandwidth limiting prevents data from moving too fast and causing network congestion.
4. Priority Queuing
Priority queuing is a method of managing network traffic by assigning different priorities to different types of packets. High-priority packets are processed before low-priority packets, ensuring that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
Example: Consider priority queuing as a VIP line at an event. Just as VIPs are allowed to enter first, high-priority packets are processed first, ensuring critical applications are not delayed.
5. Configuration and Setup
Configuring and setting up traffic shaping on a MikroTik router involves defining the queue types, setting bandwidth limits, and assigning priorities to different types of traffic. Proper configuration ensures that the network operates efficiently and that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.
Example: Think of configuration and setup as setting up a traffic management system. Just as a traffic management system requires careful planning and setup, traffic shaping requires proper configuration to ensure efficient network operation.