enhanced distributed channel access (WLAN) (EDCA)
Enhanced Distributed Channel Access (EDCA) is a further development of the Distributed Coordination Function(DCF) in WLANs according to 802.11e, which ensures the quality of service in wireless networks.
In contrast to the Distributed Coordination Function, EDCA can prioritize data differently. Data packets with higher prioritization are most likely to be sent and provided with a transport opportunity( TXOP).
EDCA operates on the competitive principle when accessing the transmission medium and works both with and without an access point( AP). EDCA reduces the eight User Priorities( UP) to the four Access Priorities: Background, Best Effort, Video and Voice.