Definition
Packet coalescing is a network optimization method of merging multiple network packets to reduce system interrupts and improve efficiency. Instead of triggering an interrupt for each packet, multiple packets are bundled together, generating a single interrupt.
Real Packet Coalescing Examples
You can disable packet coalescing when playing a multiplayer game on a computer with a powerful CPU because it can reduce latency.
Packet Coalescing Key Concepts
- Reducing transmission overhead: Packet coalescing minimizes the frequency of headers and acknowledgments, significantly lowering the bandwidth used to transmit packets.
- Energy efficacy: Packet coalescing decreases the number of packets to be processed, which helps to decrease energy consumption on network devices, aligning with sustainable computing principles.
- Improved network performance: Merging packets reduces the processing load on network interfaces, allowing for smoother data flows and quicker response time, especially during peak usage.
Configuration of Packet Coalescing
Configuring packet coalescing settings involves:
- Review network traffic patterns to identify areas for optimization.
- Track network performance to fine-tune settings to balance throughput, latency, and energy usage optimally.
- Configure packet coalescing thresholds based on network capabilities and application requirements.