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Classes of Routing Protocols
Introduction
Routing protocols are essential for the smooth operation of networks, as they allow devices to communicate and exchange information with one another. These protocols are responsible for determining the best path for data to travel through a network, and they play a crucial role in ensuring that data is delivered efficiently and reliably. There are several different classes of routing protocols, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages. In this article, we will discuss the various classes of routing protocols, their features, and provide examples of each type.
Classes of Routing Protocols
Distance-Vector Routing Protocols
Distance-vector routing protocols are based on the Bellman-Ford algorithm, which calculates the shortest path to a destination based on the distance or "cost" of each path. These protocols are also known as "rip-and-tell" protocols, as they send out their routing information to all other devices on the network at regular intervals. Distance-vector routing protocols are relatively simple to implement and are suitable for small networks.
Examples − Routing Information Protocol (RIP), Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP)
Link-State Routing Protocols
Link-state routing protocols, also known as shortest-path first (SPF) protocols, are based on the Dijkstra algorithm. These protocols maintain a database of all the links in the network, and use this information to calculate the best path to a destination. Link-state routing protocols are more complex to implement than distance-vector protocols, but they are more efficient and provide better performance in larger networks.
Examples − Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Intermediate System to Intermediate System (IS-IS)
Hybrid Routing Protocols
Hybrid routing protocols combine the features of distance-vector and link-state protocols. These protocols use distance-vector algorithms to determine the best path, but they also maintain a database of network links like link-state protocols. Hybrid routing protocols are useful in networks that require both simplicity and efficiency.
Examples − Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)
Path-Vector Routing Protocols
Path-vector routing protocols are similar to distance-vector protocols in that they use a "rip-and-tell" approach to share routing information. However, these protocols also maintain a database of all the routers in the network, and use this information to determine the best path to a destination. Path-vector protocols are useful in large networks, as they provide better scalability and stability than distance-vector protocols.
Examples − Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL), Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)
Hierarchical Routing Protocols
Hierarchical routing protocols divide a network into multiple levels, with each level responsible for a specific area of the network. These protocols are designed to improve scalability and reduce the amount of routing information that needs to be exchanged. Hierarchical routing protocols are useful in large networks, as they reduce the load on the network and improve performance.
Examples − Cisco Systems' Hierarchical Routing Protocol (HSRP), Multicast Source Discovery Protocol (MSDP)
Conclusion
Routing protocols are essential for the smooth operation of networks, as they allow devices to communicate and exchange information with one another. There are several different classes of routing protocols, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages. Distance-vector routing protocols are simple to implement and suitable for small networks, while link-state protocols are more efficient and suitable for larger networks. Hybrid routing protocols combine the features of distance-vector and link-state protocols, making them go ahead useful in networks that require both simplicity and efficiency. Path-vector routing protocols are similar to distance-vector protocols, but they also maintain a database of all the routers in the network, making them useful in large networks. Lastly, hierarchical routing protocols divide a network into multiple levels, reducing the load on the network and improving performance in large networks.
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