Which of the following protocols is typically used for reservation and resource allocation?

RSVP, or Resource Reservation Protocol, is specifically designed for reserving resources across a network. It enables applications to request and establish paths with guaranteed performance levels by facilitating resource allocation in an integrated services network. RSVP allows for mechanisms that dynamically establish and maintain these reservations, ensuring that quality of service (QoS) parameters are met during data transmission.

The correct choice underscores how RSVP communicates between endpoints and network routers to handle bandwidth reservations, making it critical for applications that require reliable and predictable network performance, such as video conferencing and real-time streaming services. This capability to manage and prioritize resources distinguishes RSVP from the other listed protocols, which serve different functions within network communications.

For instance, RTP (Real-time Transport Protocol) is primarily focused on the delivery of audio and video over IP networks, without the inherent mechanism for resource reservation. SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is utilized for signaling and controlling multimedia communication sessions but does not engage in resource allocation. IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol) is concerned with the management of multicast group memberships rather than resource reservation. Each of these protocols serves distinct purposes in networking, highlighting how RSVP's specific role in resource allocation sets it apart.