Adaptive versus Non-Adaptive Routing Algorithms


Routing Algorithms − A routing algorithm is a procedure that lays down the route or path to transfer data packets from source to the destination. There can be many paths from the source to the destination; routing algorithm mathematically computes the best path, i.e. “least – cost path”. Routing algorithms are broadly classified into adaptive and non-adaptive routing algorithms.

Adaptive Routing Algorithms − Also known as dynamic routing algorithms, they makes routing decisions dynamically depending on the network conditions. It constructs the routing table depending upon the network traffic and topology.

Non-Adaptive Routing Algorithms − Also known as static routing algorithms, they do not change the selected routing decisions for transferring data packets from the source to the destination. They construct a static routing table in advance to determine the path through which packets are to be sent.

Summary of Comparison

Adaptive Routing AlgorithmsNon-Adaptive Routing Algorithms
Adaptive routing algorithms make routing decisions dynamically depending on the network conditions.
Non-adaptive routing algorithms do not change the selected routing decisions for transferring data packets from the source to the destination.
They use the principle of dynamic routing.They use the principle of static routing.
Here, the routing paths are available in dynamic routing tables that are refreshed based on network traffic and topology.
Here, the routing paths are stored in static routing tables which are constructed based upon the routing information stored in the routers when the network is booted up.
The complexity is high.The complexity is lower.
They are more frequently deployed in computer networks since most networks are prone to frequent changes and these algorithms can adjust to the changes.
They are preferred for computer networks which are not susceptible to changes. So, their usage is limited.
The categories of adaptive routing algorithms are −The categories of non-adaptive routing algorithms are −

Updated on: 03-Feb-2021

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