A method for sending a data packet includes, sending, by a transmit node, a data packet based on a target sending rate and occupation of a data sending queue, where a sending rate for sending the data packet is proportional to the target sending rate, and the occupation of the data sending queue limits a quantity of data packets. The transmit node receives a feedback message from a receive node indicating the capability of the receive node for processing the data packet. The transmit node may adjust the sending rate based on the feedback message.