Softphones at the utility call center mark voice packets DSCP EF on the wired LAN, yet airtime traces show those frames competing in best-effort WMM queues after they hit the AP edge. What end-to-end fix is required?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
DSCP EF is a sticky note that says “voice—handle carefully.” If the AP peels that note off or maps it wrong, Wi-Fi treats the call like bulk downloads. Keep EF mapped to AC_VO from the switch edge through the SSID.
Full Explanation
End-to-end QoS requires consistent translation between IP DSCP and 802.11 WMM access categories. DSCP EF (46) should map to AC_VO on the WLAN uplink/downlink path; trust or remark policies at the wired edge must not strip or mis-map those values. Power increases and disabling voice queues do not restore classification. Without correct mapping, WMM cannot prioritize softphone media despite correct host marking.