Token Bucket Size Configuration in Traffic Policing

When configuring traffic policing, the configuration of the bucket size is crucial. It should exceed the size of the largest expected packets; otherwise, packets larger than the bucket size will become non-conformant, irrespective of their arrival rate. Packet sizes in typical network traffic can vary based on applications and traffic types, so large packets are not always present.

A key concept is the relationship between bucket size and the Committed Information Rate (CIR). If the bucket size is configured larger than the CIR, it permits traffic bursts larger than the CIR, as the bucket can hold more traffic than the CIR specifies. For optimal results, it's usually best to maintain the default bucket size unless specific requirements dictate otherwise.

Additionally, bucket size affects not only the size but also the duration of traffic bursts. An increased bucket size allows for longer bursts at rates higher than the CIR, impacting overall network performance. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective network traffic management.

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