Routing in Computer Networks
The technique of guiding a data packet from one node to another is known as routing. Directing a data packet to its intended destination is an autonomous operation that is managed by the network devices. Keep in mind that the node in this context refers to a network device known as a "router."
Routing is an essential process that moves data across a network (which can be LAN, WAN, or MAN) from one place to another. Finding the shortest path utilizing a variety of routing metrics—discussed in this article—entails making a number of routing decisions to guarantee dependable and effective data packet delivery.
Router:
These decisions regarding Internet routing are made by specialized network equipment called routers. Data packets are forwarded between computer networks by this networking device. Traffic can also be redirected according to the destination IP address. It guarantees that information gets to where it's supposed to.
The operation of routing in computer networks
Step 1: The IP is embedded in the packet's header when the source node (sender) transmits the data packet over the network.
Step 2: The data packet is received by the closest router, which then forwards it to additional routers based on certain characteristics.
Step 3: Until the data packet reaches its destination, Step 2 is carried out repeatedly.
Type of Routing in Computer Networks
There are three forms of routing, each with a distinct role.
- Static Routing
- Dynamic Routing
- Default Routing
1. Static Routing
"Non-adaptive routing" is another term for static routing. In this case, the network administrator manually configures the routing. For instance, if there are six distinct routes for data transmission between nodes, the network administrator will need to manually enter the routing information by evaluating each route.
How Static Routing Works
- A network administrator is in complete control of the network and may direct data packets to the appropriate locations.
- Packets will be routed by routers to the manually specified destination by the network administrator.
- Large enterprise networks might not benefit from this kind of routing, despite the fact that it provides fine-grained control over the routes.
2. Dynamic Routing
Another kind of routing is dynamic routing, where routing is done automatically without the need for human involvement. Several shortest-path algorithms and preset metrics are used to send packets over a network. In contemporary networks, this kind of routing is mostly chosen because it provides greater flexibility and adaptability.
How Dynamic Routing Works
- Another name for it is adaptive routing.
- In this case, the router updates the routing table with new routes in response to modifications made to the network topology.
- The autonomous routing process aids in automating all routing tasks, including establishing and removing routes in response to network upgrades or modifications.
3. Default Routing
By default Routing is a method of routing where a router is set up to send packets to a gateway or next-hop device by default if no explicit path is specified or located. When there is only one exit point on the network, it is frequently utilized.
How Dynamic Routing Works
- Investigate each option and select the best one.
- Exchanging network information with each other and the network's router.
- Rerouting the optimal way and automatically updating the path.
Advantages of Routing in Computer Networks
- Routing algorithms maximize bandwidth consumption and minimize latency by intelligently choosing the most effective path for data delivery.
- Numerous network configurations, including support for various network technologies and security measures, are made possible by routing.
- Large and complicated networks can be managed via dynamic routing protocols, which dynamically adjust to changes in traffic patterns and topology.
- Routers can serve as firewalls, enforcing access control policies and shielding internal networks from outside threats.
Disadvantages of Routing in Computer Networks
- Insecure setups can leave networks at risk, and routers are possible targets for assaults.
- Routers can be costly, especially ones with sophisticated functionality.
- Configuring and managing routing protocols can be challenging, particularly for large networks.
- Performance may be impacted by overhead introduced by dynamic routing techniques, particularly in large networks.
