QCI in LTE stands for Quality of Service Class Identifier. It is a key parameter in LTE networks that helps define the quality of service (QoS) for different types of data traffic. Each QCI value corresponds to a specific set of performance characteristics, such as priority, packet delay, and packet loss rate, which are used to manage how data is handled on the network. QCIs ensure that different types of data, such as voice, video, and internet browsing, receive the appropriate level of service to meet the requirements of the application and maintain a good user experience.
What is QCI value in VoLTE?
The QCI value in VoLTE (Voice over LTE) is typically set to 1, which is reserved for real-time voice traffic. QCI 1 is characterized by its high priority and stringent requirements for low latency and low packet loss, making it ideal for voice communication, where any delay or data loss would noticeably degrade call quality. The use of QCI 1 in VoLTE ensures that voice calls receive the highest level of service quality, with minimal delays and interruptions, thus providing a better user experience compared to traditional voice services.
QCI, or Quality of Service Class Identifier, is a concept used in LTE networks to classify and prioritize different types of data traffic. Each QCI value represents a specific QoS level, with predefined characteristics that dictate how the network should handle the traffic associated with that QCI. For example, QCI values are assigned based on the type of application, such as voice calls, video streaming, or web browsing, and determine the priority, allowable delay, and error rates for that traffic. This helps the network to efficiently allocate resources and maintain the quality of service across various applications and users.
QCI 8 and QCI 9 are both used for handling non-GBR (Guaranteed Bit Rate) traffic, but they differ in terms of priority and performance characteristics. QCI 8 typically has a higher priority than QCI 9, meaning that traffic classified under QCI 8 is more likely to be served with lower delay and higher reliability compared to QCI 9. Both are commonly used for best-effort services, such as internet browsing and email, where there is no strict requirement for guaranteed data rates. However, QCI 8 might be preferred for applications that are slightly more sensitive to delays, while QCI 9 is often used for less demanding data services.
In 5G networks, the concept of QCI is equivalent to 5QI (5G QoS Identifier). Similar to QCI in LTE, 5QI is used to classify and manage the quality of service for different types of traffic in 5G networks. Each 5QI value corresponds to a specific set of QoS characteristics, such as packet delay budget, packet error rate, and priority level. The 5QI framework in 5G expands on the QoS model used in LTE, offering more granularity and flexibility to support the diverse range of services and use cases that 5G is designed to handle, including enhanced mobile broadband, massive IoT, and ultra-reliable low-latency communications.