Routing Algorithms to Know for Networked Life

Routing algorithms are essential for efficient data transfer in networks. They determine the best paths for data packets, using methods like Distance Vector and Link State Routing, ensuring quick and reliable communication across interconnected systems.

1. Distance Vector Routing

   • Each router shares its routing table with its immediate neighbors.
   • Routers use the Bellman-Ford algorithm to calculate the best path based on distance metrics.
   • Updates are periodic, which can lead to slow convergence and routing loops.

2. Link State Routing

   • Each router maintains a complete map of the network topology.
   • Routers send link state advertisements (LSAs) to all other routers to share their state.
   • This method allows for faster convergence and more efficient routing decisions.

3. Dijkstra's Algorithm

   • A graph search algorithm that finds the shortest path from a source node to all other nodes.
   • Utilizes a priority queue to explore the least costly paths first.
   • Guarantees the shortest path in a weighted graph with non-negative weights.

4. Bellman-Ford Algorithm

   • Computes shortest paths from a single source node to all other nodes in a graph.
   • Can handle graphs with negative weight edges, unlike Dijkstra's algorithm.
   • Iteratively relaxes edges to find the shortest paths, which can be slower than Dijkstra's.

5. Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)

   • The primary protocol used to exchange routing information between different autonomous systems (AS).
   • Utilizes path vector routing to maintain the path information that gets updated dynamically.
   • Supports policy-based routing, allowing for complex routing decisions based on various attributes.

6. Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)

   • A link-state routing protocol used within a single autonomous system.
   • Uses Dijkstra's algorithm to calculate the shortest path tree for routing.
   • Supports hierarchical routing through areas, improving scalability and efficiency.

7. Routing Information Protocol (RIP)

   • A distance vector routing protocol that uses hop count as its metric.
   • Limits the number of hops to 15, making it suitable for smaller networks.
   • Updates routing tables every 30 seconds, which can lead to slow convergence.

8. Hot Potato Routing

   • A routing strategy where data packets are handed off to the next router as quickly as possible.
   • Minimizes the time a packet spends in the network, reducing latency.
   • Often used in high-speed networks where quick delivery is prioritized over optimal path selection.

9. Hierarchical Routing

   • Organizes routers into a hierarchy to manage large networks more efficiently.
   • Reduces the size of routing tables by summarizing routes at different levels.
   • Enhances scalability and reduces the complexity of routing updates.

10. Path Vector Routing

    • A routing protocol that maintains the path information for each route.
    • Each router keeps track of the full path to reach a destination, preventing routing loops.
    • Commonly used in BGP to ensure policy compliance and loop-free routing.