In a multiple-user network communication system such as a satellite-based system, or in cable or wireless systems, the system resources, such as bandwidth, code allocation, and or slot timing, are allocated to users based in part on their class of service. The allocation provides for immediate allocation of the requested resources to a user having a verified high class of service so long as the resources are abatable or can be made available by tapping a resource reserve. If only a portion of the requested resources are available, they are made available immediately. From time to time, the resources available to at least one class of service are allocated among the users of that class of service, either equally, equally up to the requested resources, equitably, or in some systematic manner.