Priority Packet Overview

Intel® Priority Packet is a utility that lets you set up priority filters to process high priority network traffic before normal traffic. Using Priority Packet, you can set up priority filters to give priority to time-critical traffic. You can set up global filters that apply to the entire system, or network component-specific filters that apply only to specific network components (individual adapters, VLANs, or adapter teams). You can also create custom priority filters or use priority filter templates to assign filter properties you use often. Priority Packet comes with pre-defined priority filter templates, or you can create your own templates.

Use Priority Packet filters to:

•	Tag packets with priority levels or forwarding behaviors

•	Drop incoming packets that match certain criteria

•	Count the number of incoming or outgoing packets that match certain criteria

Prioritizing Network Traffic

Intel's Priority Packet lets you set up priority filters to send packets on the network with an indicated priority or forwarding behavior. By prioritizing traffic at the hosts or entry point of the network, network devices can base forwarding decisions on priority information defined in the packet.

Priority Packet prioritizes traffic based on priority filters—parameters you assign to packets. Using Priority Filter Wizard, you can set up filters from templates or define custom priority filters based on the following traffic filter types:

•	Node (MAC) Address/Ethertype

•	TCP/IP information

•	IPX information

Priority Packet provides three methods for prioritizing traffic:

•	IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging

•	IP ToS (Type of Service) Layer 3 Tagging

•	Intel® High Priority Queue

IEEE 802.1p Tagging

IEEE 802.1p is an IEEE standard for tagging (or adding additional bytes of information to) packets with different priority levels. Packets are tagged with four additional bytes that indicate a priority level. Tags also increase the packet size. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first by IEEE 802.1p-aware devices. Priority packet tagging (also known as Traffic Class Expediting) allows the adapter to work with other components of the network (switches, routers) to deliver packets based on priority level. Using Priority Packet, 802.1p tagging lets you assign specific priority levels from 0 (low) to 7 (high).

 IEEE 802.1p tagging increases the size of the packets. Some hubs and switches will not recognize the larger packets because they exceed the maximum frame size of standard Ethernet packets and will drop them. Check your hub or switch documentation to see if it supports 802.1p. (You can configure the switch to strip the tags from the packets and send them on to the next destination as normal traffic.) If these devices do not support 802.1p or you are unsure, use High Priority Queue to prioritize network traffic.

The requirements for effectively using IEEE 802.1p tagging are:

•	The other devices receiving and routing 802.1p tagged packets must support 802.1p.

•	The adapters on these devices must support 802.1p (adapters using the Intel® 82558 or later Ethernet controller). All Intel® PRO/100+ server adapters support 802.1p. Intel® PRO/100B adapters do not.

IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging

Priority Packet supports two Type of Service (ToS) tagging methods:

•	Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP)

•	Legacy IP Precedence

 If you are using a separate IP ToS tagging method, this setting will override it, giving precedence to the Intel IP ToS method.

If you are encrypting traffic using Packet Protect II, you cannot use the IP ToS tagging method in Priority Packet II.

The IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging option will only be available if you are creating an IP Type priority filter.

Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) is a new tagging method that classifies packets based on network policies and rules, not on priority. The tags assign one of 64 possible forwarding behaviors, known as per hop behaviors (PHBs). A PHB provides a particular service level (bandwidth, queuing, and dropping decisions) in accordance with network policy. Using Priority Packet, DSCP tagging lets you assign assured forwarding (AF) codepoints, using one of four AF classes and one of three drop precedence values. You may also enter your own non-standard codepoints.

DSCP tags replace the existing IP header, and do not add any additional bytes to packets. DSCP tags are backwards compatible with legacy ToS IP precedence bits; so non-DSCP compliant, ToS-enabled devices will not conflict with the DSCP mapping. A default DSCP mapping to "best effort" forwarding will be applied if network rules are not defined or the devices are non-DSCP compliant.

To assign DSCP, you can specify it using Priority Packet when you create or assign a priority filter for IP traffic.

  For more information on DSCP, see RFC 2474 and 2475 on the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) Web site.

Legacy IP Precedence is an early tagging method that classifies and prioritizes packets. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first. Using Priority Packet, Legacy IP Precedence tagging lets you assign the following specific priority levels:

Network Control = 111 (7 in binary)

Internet Control = 110 (6 in binary)

CRITIC/ECP = 101 (5 in binary)

Flash Override = 100 (4 in binary)

Flash = 011 (3 in binary)

Immediate = 010 (2 in binary)

Priority = 001 (1 in binary)

Routine = 000 (0 in binary)

To assign a Legacy IP Precedence, you can specify it using Priority Packet when you create or assign a priority filter.

Intel® High Priority Queue

If your network infrastructure devices do not support IEEE 802.1p or IP ToS, or you are unsure, you can still define priority filters and transmit packets from the adapter onto the network as high priority. While High Priority Queue (HPQ) does not provide the precise priority levels of 802.1p and IP ToS tagging, it does assign traffic as either high or low priority, and sends high priority packets first. Therefore, if there are multiple applications on a system sending packets, the packets from the application with a priority filter are sent out first. HPQ does not change network routing, nor does it add any information to the packets.

To assign HPQ, you can specify it using Priority Packet when you create or assign a priority filter.

For more information, see the related white paper on Intel's networking Web site:

http://www.intel.com/network/

Dropping Incoming Packets

At times, as an administrator, you may wish to squelch (drop) malicious or otherwise unwanted packets that come into your computer. You can use Priority Packet to specify that all incoming packets of a certain type should be dropped.

Counting Incoming and Outgoing Packets

You can use Priority Packet to specify that you want all incoming or outgoing packets of a certain type to be counted. This allows you to monitor, or track, specific types of packets.

Supported Adapters and Operating Systems

The adapter lines and operating systems supported by Priority Packet II include:

Adapter Line	Win 98	Win 2000	NT 4
Intel® PRO/100 S Management Adapter	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
Intel® PRO/100 S Server Adapter	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
Intel® PRO/100+ Adapter	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
Intel® PRO/100+ Server Adapter	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
Intel® PRO/100+ Management Adapter	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
Intel® PRO/100+ Dual Port Server Adapter	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
Intel® PRO/100 CardBus II Adapters	Yes	Yes	Service Pack 5 or higher
 Priority Packet II does not support Windows 95. Priority Packet II only runs on systems having Intel adapters installed. Therefore, you cannot set filters for non-Intel remote adapters.


Setting a Priority Filter

You can set a priority filter to tag packets, drop incoming packets, or count incoming or outgoing packets using the following procedure:

To set a priority filter:

1.	Select the network component in the Priority Packet directory tree.

2.	Right click the Filters for Adapter, Filters for Team, or VLAN associated with the selected network component.

 If you want the filter to apply to all network components on the system, select the Global Filters folder.

3.	Click Add Priority Filter.

4.	If you wish to set a custom priority filter, click [image] for instructions.

5.	If you wish to use a system-defined template, click [image] for instructions.

6.	If you wish to use a user-defined template, click [image] for instructions.


Using a System-Defined Template

1.	Select Use a priority filter template and click Next.

2.	Expand the tree view to expose all templates under System Defined Templates.

3.	Select the desired template and click Next.

4.	Enter a name for the priority filter and then click Next.

5.	After verifying that you selected the correct template on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component.


Using a User-Defined Template

1.	Select Use a priority filter template and click Next.

2.	Expand the tree view to expose all templates under User Defined Templates.

3.	Select the desired template and click Next.

4.	Enter a name for the priority filter and then click Next.

5.	After verifying that you selected the correct template on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component.


Setting a Custom Priority Filter

1.	Select Custom priority filter and click Next.

2.	Select the action to apply to the traffic and click Next.

3.	Select the traffic type to filter and click Next.

4.	If you selected MAC Address/Ethertype as your traffic type, click [image] for instructions.

5.	If you selected IP as your traffic type, click [image] for instructions.

6.	If you selected IPX as your traffic type, click [image] for instructions.


When MAC Address/Ethertype is Your Traffic Type

1.	Select the desired information regarding MAC address and click Next.

2.	Select the desired information regarding Ethertype and click Next.

3.	Select the desired prioritization method and, if requested, select the priority level and click Next.

4.	Enter a name for the priority filter and click Next.

5.	After verifying that your settings are correct on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component. You can use this filter immediately by clicking Apply.

6.	If you do not want to use the filter immediately, de-select it, leaving the check box unmarked.


When IP is Your Traffic Type

1.	Select the desired information regarding Destination IP Address and Mask and click Next.

2.	Select the desired information regarding Protocol and Ports and click Next.

3.	Select the desired prioritization method and, if requested, the priority level and click Next.

4.	Enter a name for the priority filter and click Next.

5.	After verifying that your settings are correct on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component. You can use this filter immediately by clicking Apply.

6.	If you do not want to use the filter immediately, de-select it, leaving the check box unmarked.


When IPX is Your Traffic Type

1.	Enter the desired numbers associated with the destination network, host, and socket and then click Next.

2.	Select the desired information regarding Protocol and Ports and click Next.

3.	Select the desired prioritization method and, if requested, the priority level and click Next.

4.	Enter a name for the priority filter and click Next.

5.	After verifying that your settings are correct on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component. You can use this filter immediately by clicking Apply.

6.	If you do not want to use the filter immediately, de-select it, leaving the check box unmarked.


Enabling and Setting IEEE 802.1p Tagging

To use IEEE 802.1p tagging for a priority filter, you must enable the tagging method for the network component, then apply the tagging method to the priority filter.

If you have enabled IEEE 802.1p tagging on a specific network component, the IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging (overrides OS preference) check box will be marked when the network component is selected. If you have not enabled IEEE 802.1p tagging or IP ToS tagging, the default Priority Method is Intel® High Priority Queue (HPQ). You MUST enable IEEE 802.1p tagging with Priority Packet to use this tagging method.

 If you are using a separate IEEE 802.1p tagging method, this setting will override it, giving precedence to the Intel IEEE 802.1p method.

To enable IEEE 802.1p tagging for a network component:

1.	Select the network component in the Priority Packet directory tree.

2.	Under Features, mark the IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging (overrides OS preference) check box.

3.	Click Apply.

802.1p tagging is now enabled for the network component. You may now select IEEE 802.1p tagging when you create new priority filters for this network component.

To set a priority filter to use IEEE 802.1p tagging:

1.	Make sure IEEE 802.1p tagging is enabled for the network component (see above for instructions).

2.	Select the priority filter that needs to use IEEE 802.1p tagging.

3.	Select the Actions menu or right click the priority filter, and then select Add Priority Filter.

4.	Select Custom priority filter and click Next.

5.	Select Prioritize outgoing packets for the action and click Next.

6.	Select the filter type you want and click Next.

7.	Depending upon the filter type you chose, select entries on all screens up to the one where you specify Prioritization Methods, clicking Next after each selection.

8.	Under Prioritization Methods, mark the IEEE 802.1p Layer 3 Tagging (overrides OS preference) check box, select a prioritization level from the list box, and click Next.

9.	Enter a name for the priority filter and click Next.

10.	After verifying that your settings are correct on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component.

Click [image] for more information on IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging.


Enabling and Setting IP ToS Tagging

To use IP ToS (Type of Service) Layer 3 tagging for a priority filter, you must enable the tagging method for the network component, then apply the tagging method to the priority filter.

If you have enabled IP ToS tagging on a specific network component, the IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging (overrides OS preference) check box will be marked when the network component is selected. If you have not enabled IP ToS tagging or IEEE 802.1 tagging, the default Priority Method is Intel® High Priority Queue (HPQ). You MUST enable IP ToS tagging with Priority Packet to use this tagging method.

 If you are using a separate IP ToS tagging method, this setting will override it, giving precedence to the Intel IP ToS method.

If you are encrypting traffic using Packet Protect II, you cannot use the IP ToS tagging method in Priority Packet II.

The IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging option will only be available if you are creating an IP Type priority filter.

To enable IP ToS tagging for a network component:

1.	Select the network component in the Priority Packet directory tree.

2.	Under Features, mark the IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging (overrides OS preference) check box.

3.	Click Apply.

IP ToS tagging is now enabled for the network component. You may now select IP ToS tagging when you create new priority filters for this network component.

To set a priority filter to use IP ToS tagging:

1.	Make sure IPToS tagging is enabled for the network component (see above for instructions).

2.	Select the priority filter that needs to use IP ToS tagging.

3.	Select the Actions menu or right click the priority filter, and then select Add Priority Filter.

4.	Select Custom priority filter and click Next.

5.	Select Prioritize outgoing packets for the action and click Next.

6.	Select IP for the filter type and click Next.

7.	Specify the Destination IP address and click Next.

8.	Select the Protocol and Ports from the list boxes and click Next.

9.	Under Prioritization Methods, mark the IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging (overrides OS preference) check box and then select the Type of Service (ToS) tagging method.

10.	If you selected Legacy IP Precedence, select a priority level from the list box and click Next.

11.	If you selected Differentiated Services Codepoint, select an assured forwarding (AF) codepoint and then click Next.

12.	Enter a name for the priority filter and click Next.

13.	After verifying that your settings are correct on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component.

Click [image] for more information on IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging.


 Setting High Priority Queue (HPQ) Tagging

High Priority Queue (HPQ) is an Intel® method for prioritizing traffic sent onto the network from a particular node.

While HPQ does not provide the granularity of IEEE 802.1p tagging, but it does assign traffic from the node as either high or low priority. This type of prioritization is recognized by any network routing infrastructure.

If you have not enabled IP ToS tagging or IEEE 802.1p tagging, the default Priority Method is Intel® High Priority Queue (HPQ).

To set a priority filter to use High Priority Queue (HPQ) tagging:

1.	Select the priority filter that needs to use HPQ tagging.

2.	Select the Actions menu or right click the priority filter, and then select Add Priority Filter.

3.	Select Custom priority filter and click Next.

4.	Select Prioritize outgoing packets for the action and click Next.

5.	Select the filter type you want and click Next.

6.	Depending upon the filter type you chose, select entries on all screens up to the one where you specify Prioritization Methods, clicking Next after each selection.

7.	Under Prioritization Methods, mark the Intel® HPQ Tagging check box and click Next.

  If you have not enabled IP ToS tagging or IEEE 802.1p tagging, the only (default) prioritization method listed is Intel® High Priority Queue (HPQ).

8.	Enter a name for the priority filter and click Next.

9.	After verifying that your settings are correct on the Property Summary screen, click Finish.
You will now see the new filter listed and selected for the network component.

To assign HPQ, you assign the priority through Priority Packet when you create or assign a priority filter.

Click [image] for more information on High Priority Queue (HPQ) Tagging.


Dropping Incoming Packets

You can use Priority Packet to squelch (drop) malicious or otherwise unwanted packets that come into your computer.

To drop incoming packets:

1.	Create a filter just as for any other prioritization method.

2.	On the Priority Filter Wizard screen that allows you to select an action, Select Drop incoming packets.

3.	Select the remainder of your filter selections from the remaining Priority Filter Wizard screens.

Alternatively, you can right click on an existing filter, select Edit, and then select Drop incoming packets from the Action drop-down list.

 If your adapter supports drop on receive, this setting will be marked Supported, and you will be able to select this option to drop received packets according to your priority filter settings. If your adapter does not support drop on receive, this setting will be marked Unsupported and you will be unable to select this setting.

Click [image] for more information on dropping incoming packets.


Counting Incoming/Outgoing Packets

You can use Priority Packet to count the number of incoming or outgoing packets of a specified type.

To count incoming packets:

1.	Create a filter just as for any other prioritization method.

2.	On the Priority Filter Wizard screen that allows you to select an action, select Count incoming packets only.

3.	Select the remainder of your filter selections from the remaining Priority Filter Wizard screens.

Alternatively, you can right click on an existing filter, select Edit, and then select Count incoming packets only from the Action drop-down list.

4.	Click Apply to activate the changes you have made to your filter.

5.	Click Filters for Adapter to bring up the adapter statistics window, allowing you to view the packet count.

To count outgoing packets:

1.	Create a filter just as for any other prioritization method.

2.	On the Priority Filter Wizard screen that allows you to select an action, select Count outgoing packets only.

3.	Select the remainder of your filter selections from the remaining Priority Filter Wizard screens.

Alternatively, you can right click on an existing filter, select Edit, and then select Count outgoing packets only from the Action drop-down list.

4.	Click Apply to activate the changes you have made to your filter.

5.	Click Filters for Adapter to bring up the adapter statistics window, allowing you to view the packet count.

Click [image] for more information on counting incoming and outgoing packets.


Global Priority Filters

Global priority filters are applied to all standalone adapters, adapter teams, and VLANS on the system. To define a global priority filter, select the Global Filters folder in the Priority Packet directory tree and select Add Priority Filter from the Actions menu.

You may also assign a network component-specific filter that only applies to a specific network component.


Local Priority Filters
Network Component-specific Filters

Network Component-specific Filters are applied to specific network components. To define a priority filter for a specific network component, select the Filters folder under that network component in the Priority Packet directory tree. Next, select Add Priority Filter from the Actions menu.

If the filter should apply to all network components (all standalone adapters, VLANs, and adapter teams) for the system, create a global priority filter.


TCP/IP Priority Filters

Enter the protocol and/or port information. If you did not specify an IP address and mask on the previous screen, you must enter a protocol. If you did, the protocol information is optional.

If you choose not to enter the protocol, all IP traffic going to the given IP address will be assigned the specified priority.

Protocol

Specify a protocol from the list of common protocol types.

If you specify TCP or UDP as the protocol, you can enter a specific source port or all source ports, and a specific destination port or all destination ports.

If the desired priority filter protocol type is not listed, type in a new protocol number.

Source Port and Destination Port

The port numbers, if you selected the TCP or UDP protocol (optional).

The port defines the application associated with the packets being sent or received. When a packet arrives to a computer, the port information inside tells the computer where (from which application) the packet is coming from (Source port) and where the packet has to go (Destination port).

For example, to prioritize HTTP traffic coming from a Web server whose source port is 80, set up a filter on the Web server such as:

Source Port = 80

Destination Port = All Destination Ports (thus no specific Destination Port)

Protocol = TCP

To prioritize traffic going to the Web server, whose source port is 80, set up a filter on the browser (client) such as:

Source Port = All Source Ports (thus no specific Source Port)

Destination Port = 80

Protocol = TCP

You can specify a Source Port or Destination Port within the range of 1-65535:

1-1023	Well-known ports

1024-49151	Registered ports

49152-65535	Private or dynamic ports

To select All Source Ports or All Destination Ports, select the corresponding item from the list box.

If you do not specify an IP address and enter the protocol and port information, you are creating an application priority filter (all packets belonging to this application will be prioritized regardless of their destination).

If you entered an IP address, protocol, and port number, you are creating a restricted application filter, and all packets generated by that application destined to a particular computer will be prioritized. For example, you could prioritize HTTP packets destined to 134.134.122.10 when you select this IP address, TCP, and port 80.


IPX Priority Filters

Enter the destination IPX network number, host number, and/or socket. Entering a value in just one of these fields provides sufficient information for the priority filter; entering combinations of these fields further restricts the priority filter.

IPX network number

Enter the segment IPX network number. For example, 00000002. If you specify the IPX network number but not the Host number or Socket number, all packets destined to that network will be prioritized. However, if you specify a Host number and/or a Socket number along with the IPX network number, you are creating a restricted application filter.

Host number

Enter the Host number (node or MAC address) of the destination host, such as a server. For example, 00aa00ac39cf. If you specify the Host number but not the IPX network number or Socket number, all packets destined to that Host number will be prioritized, regardless of their IPX network number of Socket number. However, if you specify an IPX network number, and/or a Socket number along with the Host number, you are creating a restricted application filter.

Socket

Enter the destination socket number. For example, 0451h (file server). IPX sockets specify a particular application. If you specify ONLY a socket number (and no Network number or Host number), you are creating an application filter. All packets sent by the application associated with this socket are prioritized, regardless of their destination host or destination network.

However, if you specify a destination Network number and/or Host number along with the IPX socket, you are creating a restricted application filter.


Assured Forwarding (AF) Codepoints

The DSCP (Differentiated Services Codepoint) tagging method assigns forwarding, or Per Hop Behaviors (PHB), to packets. Priority Packet uses the Assured Forwarding (AF) PHB Group.

When packets are tagged using DSCP, they are assigned to one of four AF classes. Additionally, packets are assigned one of three drop precedence values. The following AF codepoints are available in Priority Packet:

AF11 = 001010

AF12 = 001100

AF13 = 001110

AF21 = 010010

AF22 = 010100

AF23 = 010110

AF31 = 011010

AF32 = 011100

AF33 = 011110

AF41 = 100010

AF42 = 100100

AF43 = 100110

The first digit specifies the class the packet belongs to, and the second digit represents the drop precedence value for the packet. For example, a packet tagged with AF23 is in AF class 2 with a drop precedence value of 3. Packets with high drop precedence values will be dropped before packets with low precedence values during times of overloaded network traffic.

  You may also enter your own non-standard codepoints.

For more information on DSCP, see RFC 2474 and 2475 on the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) Web site.


DSCP and Legacy IP Precedence Specification

Priority Packet supports two ToS (Type of Service) tagging methods: Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) and Legacy IP Precedence.

Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) is a new tagging method that classifies packets based on network policies and rules, not on priority. The tags assign one of 64 possible forwarding behaviors, known as per hop behaviors (PHBs). A PHB provides a particular service level (bandwidth, queuing, and dropping decisions) in accordance with network policy. Using Priority Packet, DSCP tagging lets you assign assured forwarding (AF) codepoints, using one of four AF classes and one of three drop precedence values. You may also enter your own non-standard codepoints.

DSCP tags affect the existing IP header, and do not add any additional bytes to packets. DSCP tags are backwards compatible with Legacy IP Precedence bits; so non-DSCP compliant, ToS-enabled devices will not conflict with the DSCP mapping.

A default DSCP, mapping to "best effort" forwarding will be applied if rules are not defined or the devices are non-DSCP compliant.

You specify DSCP when you create or assign a priority filter with Priority Packet.

  For more information on DSCP, see RFC 2474 and 2475 on the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) Web site.

Legacy IP Precedence is an early tagging method that classifies and prioritizes packets. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first. Using Priority Packet, Legacy IP Precedence tagging lets you assign the following specific priority levels:

Network Control = 111 (7 in binary)

Internet Control = 110 (6 in binary)

CRITIC/ECP = 101 (5 in binary)

Flash Override = 100 (4 in binary)

Flash = 011 (3 in binary)

Immediate = 010 (2 in binary)

Priority = 001 (1 in binary)

Routine = 000 (0 in binary)

To assign a Legacy IP Precedence, you can specify it using Priority Packet when you create or assign a priority filter.


Dynamic Ports

Dynamic ports are ports within the range of 49,152 and 65,535.


Ethertype

A two-byte code in the Ethernet header that indicates the protocol type in an Ethernet LAN packet. For example, 0800h.


IP ToS Tagging Method
IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging Method

A tagging method that prioritizes traffic based on the following two methods:  Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) and Legacy IP Precedence.

 If you are using a separate IP ToS tagging method, this setting will override it, giving precedence to the Intel IP ToS method.

If you are encrypting traffic using Packet Protect II, you cannot use the IP ToS tagging method in Priority Packet II.

The IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging option will only be available if you are creating an IP Type priority filter.

See also:

Enabling and setting IP ToS tagging

Overview of prioritization methods available with Priority Packet


High Priority Queue Tagging Method

High Priority Queue (HPQ) is an Intel® method for prioritizing traffic sent onto the network from a particular node.

While HPQ does not provide the granularity of IEEE 802.1p tagging, it does assign traffic from the node as either high or low priority. This type of prioritization is recognized by any network routing infrastructure.

See also:

Setting High Priority Queue (HPQ) tagging on a network component

Overview of prioritization methods available with Priority Packet


IEEE 802.1p Tagging Method

An IEEE standard for tagging packets with different priority levels. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first. Priority packet tagging (also known as Traffic Class Expediting) allows the adapter to work with other components of the network (switches, routers) to deliver better overall performance.

IEEE 802.1p tagging is only effective when your network infrastructure (switches and other routing devices) support it. If your infrastructure does not support IEEE 802.1p tagging or you are unsure, you can prioritize traffic using the Intel® High Priority Queue.

See also:

Enabling and setting IEEE 802.1p tagging on a network component

Overview of prioritization methods available with Priority Packet


Priority Filter

A priority filter is a parameter that is applied to a packet to determine if it should be tagged with IEEE 802.1p, ToS (Type of Service), or put in the High Priority Queue. Priority Packet supports three types of priority filters: Node (MAC) Address/Ethertype, TCP/IP, and IPX.

When a network packet reaches the Intel NDIS device driver, the packet is compared to each priority filter. If the packet matches a priority filter, one of the following events occurs:

   The packet receives the priority or forwarding behavior associated with that priority filter.

   The incoming packet is dropped if the filter is set to that behavior.

   The incoming or outgoing packet is counted with no tagging action if the filter is set to that behavior.

Click [image] for more information on filter behavior.


Network Component Properties

Name

The name of the selected network adapter, adapter team, or VLAN.

Type

The type of network component that is selected. Network components can be standalone physical adapters, adapter teams, or VLANS.

MAC address (visible when a network adapter is selected)

Filters packets being sent to a specific node (MAC) Address, priority filters with a specific Ethertype, or both. To set up a node address priority filter, you’ll need the destination node address or Ethertype.

FEATURES

IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging.  Priority Packet supports two ToS (Type of Service) tagging methods: Legacy IP Precedence tagging and Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) tagging. Mark the box to enable IP ToS tagging for priority filters assigned to this network component.

  If you do not mark this box, you will not be able to assign a ToS tag to priority filters you create for this network component.

If you have encrypted software using Packet Protect II, you cannot use the IP ToS tagging method in Priority Packet II.

The IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging option will only be available if you are creating an IP Type priority filter.

IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging. An IEEE standard for tagging packets with different priority levels. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first. Priority packet tagging (also known as Traffic Class Expediting) allows the adapter to work with other components of the network (switches, routers) to deliver better overall performance. Mark the box to enable IEEE 802.1p tagging for priority filters assigned to this network component.

IEEE 802.1p tagging is only effective when your network infrastructure (switches and other routing devices) support it. If your infrastructure does not support IEEE 802.1p tagging or you are unsure, you can prioritize traffic using the Intel® High Priority Queue.

 If you do not mark this box, you will not be able to assign an IEEE 802.1p tag to priority filters you create for this network component.

High Priority Queue (HPQ). An Intel method for prioritizing traffic sent onto the network from a particular node. HPQ assigns traffic from the node as either high or low priority. This type of prioritization is recognized by any network routing infrastructure. HPQ is supported on the Intel® PRO 100+ family of adapters and other next generation adapters. Visit the Intel networking Web site http://www.intel.com/network/ for details on adapter support for HPQ.

Drop on Receive. Unsupported means this function is not supported by your adapter and you will not be able to select the drop on receive setting for priority filters you create. If your adapters drops on receive, this setting will be marked Supported.

High Priority Queue (HPQ). This setting has three modes: Send, Receive, and Send/Receive. The control mode property specifies whether the prioritization methods selected will be applied while transmitting data (Send), receiving data (Receive) or both (Send/Receive). Control mode is set to Send/Receive by default.


Priority Filter Statistics
Viewing Priority Filter Statistics

To view statistics for a filter, click Filters for Adapter to bring up the adapter statistics window, allowing you to view the packet count for each filter. The adapter statistics window displays the following two columns:

Priority Filter

The names of any priority filters created for the selected network adapter, adapter team, or VLAN (if the Global Filters folder is selected, the list includes priority filters that apply to all network components for the system).

If you have not yet created a priority filter, this window will be empty. To create a priority filter for the selected component, see How to Set a Priority Filter.

Packet Count

The number of transmitted packets that matched the priority filter.


Priority Filter Properties

 You can copy, edit, delete, and rename priority filters from the Actions menu.

GENERAL

Name

The name of the selected priority filter.

Traffic Type

A priority filter applies to a node (MAC) Address/Ethertype, TCP/IP traffic, or IPX traffic.

Action

The filter can prioritize outgoing packets, drop incoming packets, or counting the number of incoming or outgoing packets (with no priority actions).

TRAFFIC PATTERN

Each packet is compared to the information in the filter pattern. If a packet matches the requirements in the filter pattern, the specified prioritization methods are applied to the packet. The filter pattern features are described below:

Filter pattern feature	Description
Destination IP address	Use this setting if you want the filter to apply only to packets being transmitted to a specific IP address (or address range as defined by the filter mask). This setting is optional. You DO NOT have to specify an IP address.
Mask	Destination Priority Filter Mask. Use this setting if you want the filter to apply to packets transmitted to a specific address range.  This setting is optional. You DO NOT have to specify a Destination Priority Filter Mask. The following Destination Priority Filter Masks are supported: 255.255.255.255 255.255.255.240 255.255.255.0 255.255.0.0 255.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 is an invalid IP subnet mask If you do not specify the IP address, you must specify a protocol in the next dialog box. If you specify the IP address, the protocol information is optional.
Protocol	Use this setting if you want the filter to apply to only a select type of traffic. Specify from the list of common protocol types. If you do not select a protocol, all IP traffic to the specified destination address will be sent with the specified priority. If you do not specify the IP address, you must specify a protocol. If you specify the IP address, the protocol information is optional.
Source Port	Where the packet is coming from.
Destination Port	Where the packet has to go.

PRIORITIZATION METHODS

If a packet meets the requirements specified by the filter pattern, the specified prioritization method(s) is applied to the packet.

IEEE 802.1p prioritization method

If this tagging method is enabled, the priority level setting will be indicated (for example, Network Control (7)).

This method is effective when your network infrastructure supports IEEE 802.1p packet tagging. If it does not, make sure you use the Intel® High Priority Queue. Priority Packet will use that adapter’s normal and high priority queues to give the specified traffic priority over the other traffic originating from the system.

High Priority Queue (HPQ) prioritization method

This tagging method will be set to 'yes' if you are using this setting, and 'no' if you are not using this setting.

HPQ uses the adapter’s normal and high priority queues to give the specified traffic priority over other traffic originating from the system.

If the network infrastructure does not support packet tagging or you are unsure, select this option to send packets as high priority but with lesser granularity than IEEE 802.1p.

IP ToS prioritization methods

The Type of Service (ToS) value for the filter displays here if the filter uses the DSCP (Differentiated Services Codepoint) tagging or Legacy IP Precedence tagging method.


Node (MAC) Address/Ethertype Specification

Filters packets being sent to a specific node address, a specific Ethertype, or both. To set up a node address priority filter, you need the destination node address, source node address, or Ethertype.


TCP/IP Traffic Specification

Filters packets being sent to a specific IP address, using a specific protocol/port, or both. To set up a TCP/IP priority filter, you need the destination IP address and mask or the protocol. You can also specify a port, if you set the protocol to be TCP or UDP.


IPX Traffic Specification

Filters packets sent using the IPX protocol. To set up an IPX priority filter, you need the destination IPX network number, destination host number, or destination socket.


Local Priority Filters

Local priority filters are all the filters defined for a specific system. They include the global filters that are applicable to all the components within the system, as well as all component-specific filters.

A list of computers on the network that you have connected to recently. Priority filters for top-level network components (adapters, adapter teams, and VLANS) are listed for these computers.


Connecting to Remote System

Priority Packet II can be used to connect to a remote system.

To connect to a remote system:

1.	Right-click on the Remote Priority Filters folder
or
Select the Remote Priority Filters folder, and then select the Actions menu.

2.	Select Connect To.

3.	Enter the netbios name or IP address of the remote system.
 You can use either a netbios name (example: \\computername) or an IP address (example:  192.168.0.1) to connect to a remote computer.

  Priority Packet II only runs on systems having Intel adapters installed. You cannot connect to filters for non-Intel remote adapters.


Remote Priority Filters
Connecting to Filters for a Remote System

Priority Packet II can be used to connect to a remote system, and then apply priority filters for that system.

To connect to filters for a remote system:

1.	Right-click on the Remote Priority Filters folder
or
Select the Remote Priority Filters folder, and then select the Actions menu.

2.	Select Connect To.

3.	Enter the netbios name or IP address of the remote system.
 You can use either a netbios name (example: \\computername) or an IP address (example:  192.168.0.1) to connect to a remote computer.

4.	Select the Filters folder to view any filters set up for the remote computer.

5.	Select a remote priority filter to view its properties.

6.	To add a remote filter, right-click on the Filters folder and select Add.

7.	When you have finished adding and viewing filters, click Apply.

  Priority Packet II only runs on systems having Intel adapters installed. You cannot connect to filters for non-Intel remote adapters.


Viewing and Changing Filters for Remote Systems

Priority Packet II can be used to connect to a remote system; and then view, add, modify, and apply priority filters for that system.

To view, add, change and apply filters for a remote system:

1.	Right-click on the Remote Priority Filters folder
or
Select the Remote Priority Filters folder, and then select the Actions menu.

2.	Select Connect To.

3.	Enter the netbios name or IP address of the remote system.
  You can use either a netbios name (example: \\computername) or an IP address (example:  192.168.0.1) to connect to a remote computer.

4.	Select the Filters folder to view any filters set up for the remote computer.

5.	Select a remote priority filter to view its properties.

6.	To add a remote filter, right-click on the Filters folder and select Add.

7.	To edit a remote filter, right-click on the filter name and select Edit.
Click OK when finished editing.

8.	When you have finished adding and viewing filters, click Apply.

 Priority Packet II only runs on systems with Intel adapters installed. You cannot set filters for non-Intel remote adapters.


Priority Filter Templates
Using/Defining Priority Filter Templates

Priority filter templates are designed to prioritize traffic based on some commonly used properties. You can choose a priority filter template when you create a filter using the Priority Filter Wizard. To view the available templates, select Show from the Filter Templates menu. Select a filter template to view its properties.

Priority Packet comes with pre-defined filter templates (in the System Defined Templates folder). Templates that you have defined will appear in the User Defined Templates folder.

To use a priority filter template to create a new priority filter:

1.	Select the Filters folder for the network component (adapter, adapter team, or VLAN) for which you are creating the priority filter.

 If you want the filter to apply to all network components on the system, select the Global Filters folder.

2.	From the Actions menu, select Add Priority Filter.

3.	On the Priority Filter Wizard, select Use a priority filter template.

4.	Follow the prompts to select a template and name the priority filter.

When you are finished, the new priority filter appears in the list of filters for the selected network component. Select the filter to view its properties.

 You can copy, edit, delete, or rename priority filters. Select the filter, then select the appropriate function from the Actions menu. Click [image] for instructions.

To define a priority filter template:

1.	In the Filter Templates menu, make sure Show is checked.

2.	Select the User Defined Templates folder.

3.	From the Actions menu, select Create.

4.	Follow the prompts in the Priority Filter Template Wizard.

When you are finished, the new priority filter template will appear in the User Defined Templates folder. Next time you create a priority filter, you can use the template you just created.

 You can edit, delete, or rename a priority filter template. Select the template, then select the appropriate function from the Actions menu. Click [image] for instructions.


Priority Filter Types

You can create a custom priority filter to apply to a node address/Ethertype, TCP/IP traffic, or IPX traffic.

Node (MAC) address/Ethertype priority filter

Filters packets being sent to a specific node address, a specific Ethertype, or both. To set up a node address priority filter, you need the destination node address or Ethertype.

Click [image] for more information

TCP/IP priority filter

Filters packets being sent to a specific IP address, priority filters with a specific protocol/port, or both. To set up a TCP/IP priority filter, you need the destination IP address and mask, or the protocol. You can also specify a port if you set the protocol to be TCP or UDP.

Click [image] for more information.

IPX priority filter

Filters packets sent using the IPX protocol. To set up an IPX priority filter, you need the destination IPX network number, destination host number, or destination socket.

Click [image] for more information.


Node (MAC) Address/Ethertype Priority Filter

Specify a node (or MAC) address to give priority to packets destined for this location. For example, if you specify the node address 00AA00AC39CF, you limit the packet prioritization to packets destined for this specific computer on the network.

If you do not specify a destination node address, you will be required to specify an Ethertype next. If you specify a destination node address, specifying Ethertype is optional.


Editing Priority Filters

You can edit, rename, or delete priority filters you have created. You can also copy a priority filter and paste it in a different Filters folder.

To edit a priority filter:

Depending upon the properties previously set for a priority filter, you can modify those properties as follows:

1.	Select the priority filter.

2.	From the Actions menu, select Edit.
The Edit Priority Filter Dialog displays.

3.	After you finish making changes, click OK.

4.	Click Refresh to view the new properties for the priority filter.

To rename a priority filter:

1.	Select the priority filter

2.	From the Actions menu, select Rename.

3.	Enter a new name and then press Enter.

To delete a priority filter:

Once you delete a priority filter, you cannot recover its properties.

1.	Select the priority filter.

2.	From the Actions menu, select Delete.

The priority filter will be removed from the filter list.

To copy and paste a priority filter to a new Filters folder:

1.	Select the priority filter.

2.	From the Actions menu, select Copy.

3.	Select the Filters folder where you want to paste the filter.

4.	From the Actions menu, select Paste.

The copied filter appears in the selected Filters folder.


Priority Filter Wizard Help

You can create a filter based on the settings in a priority filter template, or create your own custom priority filter.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Select Template

You can select a system defined template or select a template that you have created previously. You can view the properties of any template by selecting the template, right-clicking, and selecting View.

System-Defined Templates

Priority Packet comes with pre-defined priority filter templates.

For example, the Intel® ProShare Video Client Priority Filter template prioritizes traffic from Intel® ProShare® Video products to establish clear video transmission. To target this traffic, the filter applies to all TCP/IP traffic with the Priority Filter Mask 255.255.255.255, using the TCP (6) protocol, Remote Job Entry (5) source port, and 5714 destination port. Packets that match these specifications (packets related to Intel® ProShare® Video products) are tagged with the DSCP (Differentiated Services Codepoint) (assured forwarding set to AF12), IEEE 802.1p tagging (set to Nework Control (7) priority level), and are prioritized by the Intel® High Priority Queue (HPQ).

User-Defined Templates

Filter templates that you have created using the Priority Filter Template Wizard.

Click [image] for instructions on creating filter templates.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Name Filter

Although you are using the settings in the selected priority filter template, each priority filter must have a unique name. Type a name that is not currently being used by another filter.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Property Summary (IP)

A summary of the settings for the filter you just created. If you are satisfied with these settings, click Finish. The priority filter will be added to the Filters folder for the selected network component if you are defining a local priority filter (or the Global Filters folder if you are defining a global priority filter).

 If the check box next to the priority filter is marked, the filter, dropping action, or counting action will be applied to any packets that match its properties. The filter will not be applied if the check box is unmarked.

GENERAL

Name

The name of the selected priority filter.

Traffic Type

A priority filter applies to a node (MAC) address/Ethertype, TCP/IP traffic, or IPX traffic.

Action

The filter can prioritize outgoing packets, count the number of outgoing packets (with no priority actions), drop incoming packets, or count the number of incoming packets (with no priority actions).

TRAFFIC PATTERN

Each packet is compared to the information in the filter pattern. If a packet matches the requirements in the filter pattern, the specified prioritization methods are applied to the packet. The filter pattern features are described below.

Filter pattern feature	Description
Destination IP address	Use this setting if you want the filter to apply only to packets being transmitted to a specific IP address (or address range as defined by the filter mask). This setting is optional. You DO NOT have to specify an IP address.
Mask	Destination Priority Filter Mask. Use this setting if you want the filter to apply to packets transmitted to a specific address range.  This setting is optional. You DO NOT have to specify a Destination Priority Filter Mask. The following Destination Priority Filter Masks are supported: 255.255.255.255 255.255.255.240 255.255.255.0 255.255.0.0 255.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 is an invalid IP subnet mask If you do not specify the IP address, you must specify a protocol in the next dialog box. If you specify the IP address, the protocol information is optional.
Protocol	Use this setting if you want the filter to apply to only a select type of traffic. Specify from the list of common protocol types. If you do not select a protocol, all IP traffic to the specified destination address will be sent with the specified priority. If you do not specify the IP address, you must specify a protocol. If you specify the IP address, the protocol information is optional.
Source Port	Where the packet is coming from.
Destination Port	Where the packet has to go.

PRIORITIZATION METHODS

If a packet meets the requirements specified by the filter pattern, the specified prioritization method(s) is applied to the packet.

IEEE 802.1p Prioritization Method

If this tagging method is enabled, the priority level setting will be indicated (for example, Network Control (7)).

This method is effective when your network infrastructure supports IEEE 802.1p packet tagging. If it does not, make sure you use the Intel® High Priority Queue. Priority Packet will use that adapter’s normal and high priority queues to give the specified traffic priority over the other traffic originating from the system.

High Priority Queue (HPQ) Prioritization Method

This method will be set to 'yes' if you are using this setting, and 'no' if you are not using this setting.

HPQ uses the adapter’s normal and high priority queues to give the specified traffic priority over the other traffic originating from the system.

If the network infrastructure does not support packet tagging or you are unsure, select this option to send packets as high priority but with lesser granularity than IEEE 802.1p.

IP ToS Prioritization Methods

The ToS (Type of Service) value set for the filter if it uses Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) tagging or Legacy IP Precedence tagging.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Filter Type

You can create a custom priority filter to apply to a node (MAC) address/Ethertype, TCP/IP address, or IPX address.

Node (MAC) address/Ethertype priority filter

Filters packets being sent to a specific node address, priority filters with a specific Ethertype, or both. To set up a node address priority filter, you need the destination node address or Ethertype.

Click [image] for more information.

TCP/IP priority filter

Filters packets being sent to a specific IP address, priority filters with a specific protocol/port, or both. To set up a TCP/IP priority filter, you need the destination IP address and mask, or the protocol. If you use TCP or UDP protocol, you can also specify ports.

Click [image] for more information.

IPX priority filter

Filters packets sent using the IPX protocol. To set up an IPX priority filter, you need the destination IPX network number, destination host number, or destination socket.

Click [image] for more information.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Select Action

You can use the priority filter to prioritize packets, to count incoming or outgoing packets (with no tagging action), or to drop incoming packets.

Prioritize outgoing packets

Tags will be applied to outgoing packets that match the filter pattern (prioritized packets are counted automatically).

Count outgoing packets

The number of outgoing packets that match the filter pattern will display when the filter is selected. No tagging action is taken on packets.

Drop incoming packets

Incoming packets that match the filter pattern will be dropped (dropped packets are counted automatically).

Count incoming packets only

The number of incoming packets that match the filter pattern will display when the filter is selected. No tagging action is taken on packets.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Select Destination IP Address
Priority Filter Wizard Help - Select Destination/Source IP Address

Enter the destination or source IP address and mask (optional). For example:

IP address = 123.123.123.20

Mask = 255.255.255.255

A filter that is assigned these values will prioritize packets destined to host 123.123.123.20.

If you specify a Destination or Source IP address and Destination or Source Priority Filter Mask, the priority filter will affect only packets sent to that address (or address range as defined by the filter mask).

If you enter a Destination or Source IP address and select Do Not Specify a Protocol on the next screen, all IP traffic to that destination or source address will be sent with the specified priority.

The Destination or Source Priority Filter Mask is NOT a subnet mask. IP address bits will be ignored if they correspond to mask bits that are set to a logical "0". To limit the priority filter to just one IP address, the Priority Filter mask must be set to 255.255.255.255. If you specify a mask other than 255.255.255.255, all IP addresses within the range of the mask will be affected, including reserved, broadcast and network addresses.

For example, suppose you enter an IP address of 123.123.123.20. The Priority Filter mask will affect the IP address range as follows:

A Priority Filter mask of 255.255.255.255 will cause the Priority Filter to prioritize traffic to IP address 123.123.123.20 only.

A Priority Filter mask of 255.255.255.240 will prioritize all IP addresses from 123.123.123.16 through 123.123.123.31

A Priority Filter mask of 255.255.255.0 will prioritize all IP addresses from 123.123.123.0 through 123.123.123.255.

The following Destination or Source Priority Filter Masks are supported:

255.255.255.255

255.255.255.240

255.255.255.0

255.255.0.0

255.0.0.0

0.0.0.0 is an invalid IP subnet mask

If you do not specify the IP address, you must specify a protocol in the next dialog box. If you specify the IP address, the protocol information is optional.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Specify Protocol and Ports

Enter the protocol and/or port information. If you do not specify an IP address and mask on the previous screen, you must enter a protocol. If you did specify an IP address and mask, the protocol information is optional.

If you choose not to enter the protocol, all IP traffic going to the given IP address will be assigned the specified priority.

Protocol

Specify from the list of common protocol types.

If you specify TCP or UDP as the protocol, you can enter a specific source port or all source ports, and a specific destination port or all destination ports.

If the priority filter protocol type is not in the list, type in a new protocol type.

Source Port and Destination Port

The port numbers, if you selected the TCP or UDP protocol (optional).

The port defines the application associated with the packets being sent or received. When a packet arrives at a computer, the port information inside tells the computer where (from which application) the packet is coming from (Source port) and where the packet has to go (Destination port).

For example, to prioritize HTTP traffic coming from a Web server whose source port is 80, set up a filter on the Web server such as:

Source Port = 80

Destination Port = All Destination Ports (thus no specific Destination Port)

Protocol = TCP

To prioritize HTTP traffic going to the Web server, whose source port is 80, set up a filter on the browser (client) such as:

Source Port = All Source Ports (thus no specific Source Port)

Destination Port = 80

Protocol = TCP

You can specify a Source Port or Destination Port within the range of 1-65535. Port numbers are designated as follows:

1-1023	Well-known ports
1024-49151	Registered ports
49152-65535	Private or dynamic ports

To select All Source Ports or All Destination Ports, select the corresponding item from the list box.

If you do not specify an IP address, enter the protocol, and enter port information, you are creating an application priority filter (all packets belonging to this application will be prioritized regardless of their destination).

If you specify an IP address, protocol, and port number, you are creating a restricted application filter, and all packets generated by that application destined to a particular computer will be prioritized. For example, you could prioritize HTTP packets destined to 134.134.122.10 when you select this IP address, TCP, and port 80.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Select Prioritization Method

Select the method used to tag packets that match the filter requirements. You can choose more than one method.

 If IEEE 802.1p Layer 3 Tagging is unavailable, you must first enable the method for the network component.

If HPQ is not available, your adapter may not support this prioritization method. Visit the Intel networking Web site for details on hardware compatibility.

IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging

There are two kinds of ToS (Type of Service) Layer 3 tagging methods: Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP) and Legacy IP Precedence.

 If you are using a separate IP ToS tagging method, this setting will override it, giving precedence to the Intel IP ToS method.

If you are encrypting traffic using Packet Protect II, you cannot use the IP ToS tagging method in Priority Packet II.

The IP ToS Layer 3 Tagging option will only be available if you are creating an IP Type priority filter.

Differentiated Services Codepoint (DSCP)

DSCP is a new tagging method that classifies packets based on network policies and rules, not on priority. The tags assign one of 64 possible forwarding behaviors, known as per hop behaviors (PHBs). A PHB provides a particular service level (bandwidth, queuing, and dropping decisions) in accordance with network policy.

Click [image] for more information.

Legacy IP Precedence

Legacy IP Precedence is an early tagging method that classifies and prioritizes packets. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first.

Click [image] for more information.

IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging

An IEEE standard for tagging packets with different priority levels. When these packets are sent out on the network, the higher priority packets are transferred first. Priority packet tagging (also known as Traffic Class Expediting) allows the adapter to work with other components of the network (switches, routers) to deliver packets based on priority level.

IEEE 802.1p tagging is only effective when your network infrastructure (switches and other routing devices) support it. If your infrastructure does not support IEEE 802.1p tagging or you are unsure, you can prioritize traffic using the Intel® High Priority Queue.

See also:

How to set and enable IEEE 802.1p tagging on a network component

Overview of IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Tagging

Intel® High Priority Queue (HPQ)

An Intel method for prioritizing traffic sent onto the network from a particular node.

While HPQ does not provide the granularity of IEEE 802.1p tagging, it does assign traffic from the node as either high or low priority. This type of prioritization is recognized by any network routing infrastructure. Use this method if your network does not support IEEE 802.1p tagging, or you are unsure whether it supports IEEE 802.1p tagging.

Click [image] for more information.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Select Ethertype

To filter packets based on Ethertype, choose from the list provided or enter your own. For example, 0800h for IP.

A filter based on an Ethertype prioritizes all packets of a particular Ethernet protocol (such as IP). If you also specified a node address, such as 00aa00ac39cf, the combined filter prioritizes packets of a particular protocol type, such as IP, that are destined for this node.

If you entered a destination or source node address on the previous screen, specifying an Ethertype is optional. If you did not enter a destination node address on the previous screen, you must enter an Ethertype.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Property Summary (MAC/Ethertype)

Summary

A summary of the settings for the filter you just created. If you are satisfied with these settings, click Finish. The priority filter will be added to the Filters folder for the selected network component (or the Global Filters folder if you are defining a global priority filter).

 If the check box next to the priority filter is marked, the filter will be applied to any packets that match its properties. The filter will not be applied if the check box is unmarked.

GENERAL

Name

The name of the selected priority filter.

Traffic Type

A priority filter applies to a node (MAC) address/Ethertype, TCP/IP traffic, or IPX traffic.

Action

The filter can prioritize outgoing packets, count the number of outgoing packets (with no priority actions), drop incoming packets, or count the number of incoming packets (with no priority actions).

TRAFFIC PATTERN

Each packet is compared to the information in the filter pattern. If a packet matches the requirements in the filter pattern, the specified prioritization methods are applied to the packet. The filter pattern features are described below.

Destination MAC Address / Source MAC Address

The node (or MAC) address gives priority to packets destined for this location. For example, if you specify the node address 00AA00AC39CF, you limit the packet prioritization to packets destined for this specific computer on the network.

Ethertype

A filter based on an Ethertype prioritizes all packets of a particular Ethernet protocol (such as IP). If you also specified a node address, such as 00aa00ac39cf, the combined filter prioritizes packets of a particular protocol type, such as IP, that are destined for this node.

If you entered a destination node address, specifying an Ethertype is optional. If you did not enter a destination node address, you must enter an Ethertype.

PRIORITIZATION METHODS

If a packet meets the requirements specified by the filter pattern, the specified prioritization method(s) is applied to the packet.

IEEE 802.1p Prioritization Method

If this tagging method is enabled, the priority level setting will be indicated (for example, Network Control (7)).

This method is effective when your network infrastructure supports IEEE 802.1p packet tagging. If it does not, make sure you use the Intel® High Priority Queue.

High Priority Queue (HPQ) Prioritization Method

This method will be set to 'yes' if you are using this setting, and 'no' if you are not using this setting.

HPQ uses the adapter’s normal and high priority queues to give the specified traffic priority over the other traffic originating from the system.

If the network infrastructure does not support packet tagging or you are unsure, select this option to send packets as high priority but with lesser granularity than IEEE 802.1p.


Priority Filter Wizard Help - Specify IPX Destination Information
Priority Filter Wizard Help - Specify IPX Destination Information / Source Information

Enter the destination IPX network number, host number, and/or socket. Entering a value in just one of these fields provides sufficient information for the priority filter; entering combinations of these fields further restricts the priority filter.

IPX network number

Enter the segment IPX network number. For example, 00000002. If you specify the IPX network number but not the Host number or Socket number, all packets destined to that network will be prioritized.

Host number

Enter the Host number (node or MAC address) of the destination host (such as a server). For example, 00aa00ac39cf.

Socket

Enter the destination socket number. For example, 0451h (file server). IPX sockets specify a particular application. If you specify ONLY a socket number (and no Network number or Host number), you are creating an application filter. All packets sent by the application associated with this socket are prioritized, regardless of their destination host or destination network.

However, if you specify a destination Network number and/or Host number along with the IPX socket, you are creating a restricted application filter.


Priority Filter Wizard - Property Summary (IPX)

A summary of the settings for the filter you just created. If you are satisfied with these settings, click Finish. The priority filter will be added to the Filters folder for the selected network component (or the Global Filters folder if you are defining a global priority filter).

 If the check box next to the priority filter is marked, the filter will be applied to any packets that match its properties. The filter will not be applied if the check box is unmarked.

GENERAL

Name

The name of the selected priority filter.

Traffic Type

A priority filter applies to a node (MAC) address/Ethertype, TCP/IP traffic, or IPX traffic.

Action

The filter can prioritize outgoing packets, count the number of outgoing packets (with no priority actions), drop incoming packets, or count the number of incoming packets (with no priority actions).

TRAFFIC PATTERN

Each packet is compared to the information in the filter pattern. If a packet matches the requirements in the filter pattern, the specified prioritization methods are applied to the packet. The filter pattern features are described below:

Filter pattern feature	Description
IPX destination network	The segment IPX network number. For example, 00000002. If you specify the IPX destination network number but not the Host number or Socket number, all packets destined to that network will be prioritized.
IPX destination host	The Host number (node or MAC address) of the destination host, such as a server. For example, 00aa00ac39cf.
Socket	The destination socket number. For example, 0451h (file server). IPX sockets specify a particular application. If you specify ONLY a socket number (and no Network number or Host number), you are creating an application filter. All packets sent by the application associated with this socket are prioritized, regardless of their destination host or destination network. However, if you specify a destination Network number and/or Host number along with the IPX socket, you're creating a restricted application filter.

PRIORITIZATION METHODS

If a packet meets the requirements specified by the filter pattern, the specified prioritization method(s) is applied to the packet.

IEEE 802.1p Prioritization Method

If this tagging method is enabled, the priority level setting will be indicated (for example, Network Control (7)).

This method is effective when your network infrastructure supports IEEE 802.1p packet tagging. If it does not, make sure you use the Intel® High Priority Queue.

High Priority Queue (HPQ) Prioritization Method

This method will be set to 'yes' if you are using this setting, and 'no' if you are not using this setting.

HPQ uses the adapter’s normal and high priority queues to give the specified traffic priority over the other traffic originating from the system.

If the network infrastructure does not support packet tagging or you are unsure, select this option to send packets as high priority but with lesser granularity than IEEE 802.1p.