Network + Dynamic Routing

What is static routing?

Static routing is a routing method where routes are manually configured and do not change unless manually updated.

What are the main advantages of static routing?

Static routing is simple to configure, requires less processing power, provides predictable paths, and is more secure since routes are not shared with other routers.

What are the main disadvantages of static routing?

Static routing does not adapt to network changes, requires manual updates, and can be impractical for large or frequently changing networks.

When is static routing most commonly used?

Static routing is often used in small, stable networks, in stub networks (with only one route in and out), and for specific paths like VPNs.

How does a router use static routing?

A router uses static routes by referencing manually added entries in its routing table, which direct traffic to specific next-hop addresses or exit interfaces.

What is dynamic routing?

Dynamic routing is a routing method where routers automatically learn and update routes using routing protocols that adapt to network changes.

What are the benefits of dynamic routing?

Dynamic routing automatically adjusts to topology changes, reduces manual configuration, and is scalable for larger networks.

What are the downsides of dynamic routing?

Dynamic routing can be complex to configure, uses more CPU and memory resources, and may introduce slight delays while updating routes.

Name some common dynamic routing protocols.

Common dynamic routing protocols include RIP (Routing Information Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), EIGRP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol), and BGP (Border Gateway Protocol).

How does a router decide between static and dynamic routes?

Routers prioritize routes based on administrative distance, with static routes typically having a lower (more trusted) administrative distance than dynamic routes.

What is administrative distance in routing?

Administrative distance is a value that rates the trustworthiness of different routing information sources, with lower values being preferred.

How does dynamic routing reduce manual configuration efforts?

Dynamic routing protocols allow routers to automatically share and update routes, reducing the need for manual updates by network administrators.

In what situations is dynamic routing preferred over static routing?

Dynamic routing is preferred in large or complex networks where routes need to adapt frequently, such as in WANs or multi-router LANs.

How does RIP determine the best path in dynamic routing?

RIP (Routing Information Protocol) uses hop count as its metric, preferring the route with the fewest hops.

What metric does OSPF use to select the best path?

OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) uses link cost, considering factors like bandwidth and delay, to choose the best route.

How does dynamic routing enhance fault tolerance in a network?

Dynamic routing protocols detect and adjust to network changes or failures automatically, ensuring data can reroute to available paths.

What is route convergence in dynamic routing?

Route convergence is the process where all routers update and agree on the best routes after a network change or failure.

What is the role of EIGRP in dynamic routing?

EIGRP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol) is a Cisco protocol that uses a combination of distance vector and link-state features, providing fast convergence and efficient routing.

How does BGP differ from other dynamic routing protocols?

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is an exterior gateway protocol used to exchange routing information between different autonomous systems, ideal for Internet routing.

Why might a network use both static and dynamic routing?

Networks may use both static and dynamic routing for flexibility: static routes for predictable, fixed paths, and dynamic routes for adaptable and resilient paths in larger networks.