What is the term for the capability of a network to provide better service to selected traffic?

The capability of a network to provide better service to selected traffic is referred to as Quality of Service (QoS). QoS involves various techniques and strategies that prioritize certain types of data over others to ensure that high-priority traffic, such as voice or video data, receives the necessary bandwidth and lower latency required for optimal performance.

This capability is essential in modern networks where different applications and services have varying performance requirements. For instance, real-time applications such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) and video conferencing demand consistent and reliable throughput with minimal delays. QoS mechanisms can enforce these needs by managing bandwidth allocation, buffering, and scheduling techniques that distinguish between types of data packets.

In contrast, while network performance generally refers to the overall efficacy of the network in terms of speed, reliability, and throughput, it does not specifically address the prioritization and treatment of different types of traffic. Traffic shaping and bandwidth allocation are practices that can contribute to QoS but do not encompass the full range of strategies involved in managing the quality of service across a network. Traffic shaping generally focuses on controlling the flow and volume of data transmitted, while bandwidth allocation refers to dividing available bandwidth among users or applications, both of which are components of a more comprehensive QoS strategy.