DSCP

DSCP marks IP packets to indicate QoS treatment (priority) in the network.

Updated: 2026-03-05

Definition

Differentiated Services Code Point (DSCP) is a field in the IP header used to classify traffic for QoS.

Network devices can apply priority queues or policies based on DSCP markings.

Key points

Packet marking for QoS
Used for prioritization and policy decisions
Must be trusted/remarked appropriately

Common mistakes

Trusting markings from untrusted endpoints.
Inconsistent policies across network devices.

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Cisco CCNA (200-301)

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