QoS
(Quality of Service)
In modern digital networks, QoS is often implemented as a set of priority levels for different kinds of network traffic and/or different users.
For example, time-sensitive data — such as real-time audio and video connections, (including voice and video calling) may be prioritized over other types of data. Those other types of data - such as a web page - can be delayed by fraction of a second with minimal impact for the end user. However with audio/video data (and real-time gaming) even the shortest delay can have a large negative impact for the end user, making it impossible to have a voice conversation over a data network.
QoS technologies can also be used to give certain users higher priority if they are willing to pay more for it.
QoS can also refer to a wide range of connection quality measurements. Connection delay and interference may be measured, as well as sound quality and volume, and echo.
Last updated May 3, 2024 by Rich Brome
Editor in Chief Rich became fascinated with cell phones in 1999, creating mobile web sites for phones with tiny black-and-white displays and obsessing over new phone models. Realizing a need for better info about phones, he started Phone Scoop in 2001, and has been helming the site ever since. Rich has spent two decades researching and covering every detail of the phone industry, traveling the world to tour factories, interview CEOs, and get every last spec and photo Phone Scoop readers have come to expect. As an industry veteran, Rich is a respected voice on phone technology of the past, present, and future.
