Difference between Hierarchical and Flat routing protocol


Routing protocols are utilized in computer systems to decide the most excellent way for network packets to travel from their source to their goal. There are two primary sorts of routing protocols: Hierarchical and Flat. Hierarchical routing protocols utilize a hierarchical topology, whereas flat routing protocols utilize a single-level topology. The choice between a hierarchical and flat protocol depends on the estimate and complexity of the network in address. In this article, we are going investigate the contrasts between hierarchical and flat routing protocols, counting their versatility, complexity, fault tolerance, and examples of each sort. By the conclusion of this article, you'll have a clear and improved understanding of which sort of routing protocol is best suited for your network needs.

Hierarchical routing protocol

The hierarchical routing protocol is a sort of routing protocol utilized in computer systems that employs a hierarchical topology to organize network information and decide the way that network packets should take from their source to their goal. In a hierarchical routing protocol, the network is organized into multiple layers or levels, with each layer capable of a different set of tasks, such as forwarding packets or maintaining routing tables.

Hierarchical routing protocols are especially valuable for large systems with numerous sub-networks, as they give a way to organize network information and reduce the sum of routing information that should be exchanged between nodes. This makes hierarchical routing protocols profoundly scalable and fault-tolerant, as the hierarchical structure gives redundancy and permits the effective distribution of routing data across the network

These protocols utilize a link-state routing algorithm, which permits them to calculate the shortest way between two nodes within the network based on the foremost up-to-date data available.

In general, hierarchical routing protocols are an effective apparatus for organizing and overseeing large and complex computer systems. By employing a hierarchical topology, these protocols can give more prominent adaptability, blame resistance, and proficiency, making them a basic component of present-day network infrastructure.

Flat routing protocol

A flat routing protocol is a sort of routing protocol utilized in computer systems that employs a single-level topology to organize network data and determine the way that network packets ought to take from their source to their goal. In a flat routing protocol, each hub within the network is capable of forwarding packets and keeping up its possess routing table

Flat routing protocols are ordinarily utilized in small networks with a constrained number of nodes, as they do not scale well to bigger networks. They are generally straightforward to set up and keep up, as there's nothing to organize network information into hierarchical layers or levels. However, as the network develops, flat routing protocols can end up congested and wasteful, as each node must keep up routing information for all other nodes within the network.

A few common examples of flat routing protocols include Rip (Routing Information Protocol) and EIGRP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol), which are commonly utilized in small office or home office (SOHO) networks and small business networks. These protocols utilize a distance-vector routing algorithm, which permits them to calculate the shortest way between two hubs within the network based on the number of jumps or distance between them.

In general, flat routing protocols are a simple and viable tool for organizing and overseeing small networks with a limited number of nodes. However, as the network develops, flat routing protocols can get to be congested and wasteful, and hierarchical routing protocols may be required to supply the adaptability, and productivity needed for bigger and more complex systems.

Differences between Hierarchical and Flat routing protocol

The differences are in the following table −

Basis of Difference

Hierarchical routing protocol

Flat routing protocol

Definition

The routing protocol uses a hierarchical topology

The routing protocol uses a single-level topology.

Network

A hierarchical routing protocol is suitable for large networks

A flat routing protocol is suitable for small networks.

Routing Tables

It utilizes multiple routing tables to organize network information.

It utilizes a single routing table to organize network information

Scalability

Profoundly scalable, able to handle expansive networks with multiple layers.

Limited scalability, can get to be congested and wasteful as the network grows.

Complexity

It is more complex to set up and maintain.

maintain. It is simpler to set up and maintain

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between a hierarchical and flat routing protocol depends on the measure and complexity of the network in question. Eventually, the choice between these two sorts of routing protocols will depend on the particular needs and characteristics of the network in question. By understanding the differences between hierarchical and flat routing protocols, network administrators can make educated choices about which protocol is best suited for their network needs.

Updated on: 18-Jul-2023

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