Routing Algorithm in Computer Network
Computer networks rely heavily on routing algorithms. Data would not be possible to move across various network segments without them. We shall examine the many kinds of routing algorithms and their operation in this post. The rules that determine how data is transported across a network are known as routing algorithms. They are essential for guiding internet traffic and guaranteeing that data consistently reaches its intended recipient. Numerous routing algorithms exist, and each has advantages and disadvantages of its own. Because the routing method can significantly affect the network's performance, choosing the best one for a given network is a crucial effort.
Types Of Routing Algorithm in Computer Networks
- Adaptive Routing Algorithm
- Non-Adaptive Routing Algorithm
1. Adaptive Routing Algorithm
As data packets are being transferred from the source to the destination, adaptive routing algorithms also referred to as dynamic routing algorithms—make routing decisions on the fly. These algorithms build routing tables based on network characteristics, such as topology and traffic. They attempt to determine the optimal route, or "least-cost path," based on the distance, transit time, and hop count.
Enhancing network performance is one advantage of employing an adaptive routing method. The program may discover the most efficient path through the network and avoid congestion by continuously modifying its route. This may result in lower latency and faster overall performance.
Types of Adaptive Routing Algorithm
- Centralized Algorithm
- Isolated Algorithm
- Distributed Algorithm
The optimal path for data to go across a network is decided by a single entity in a centralized routing algorithm. With complete information of the network, this entity, typically a router, is able to make decisions depending on variables like cost, bandwidth, and congestion.
b). Isolated Algorithm
An isolated algorithm is a routing technique used in computer networking that ignores the network topology. The technique merely uses the destination address to determine a packet's next hop. Usually, tiny networks with simple topologies employ this kind of technique.
c). Distributed Algorithm
Computer networks employ routing algorithms to find the most efficient way to move data between locations. There are many different routing algorithms available, and each has pros and cons of its own.
The distributed algorithm is one kind of routing method. Large networks usually employ this method because of its scalability and versatility. Each node in the network is in charge of determining the optimal route for data to go when using this algorithm. By sharing information with other network nodes, this can be accomplished.
2. Non-Adaptive Routing Algorithm
Static routing, another name for a non-routing algorithm, is a technique in which the routing pathways are preset and unaffected by network conditions. These methods are easy to build but might not be as effective as dynamic routing because they don't adjust to changes in traffic or network architecture.
Static routing has the benefit of being easier to use than adaptive routing. This is due to the fact that there is no need to continuously check and modify the route in response to shifting conditions. The approach can be made much simpler by precalculating static routes.
Key Features of Non-Adaptive Algorithm:
- Pre-configured tables are used to make routing decisions, and these paths are not dynamically modified.
- May result in less-than-ideal routing if network conditions alter.
- Unable to respond to congestion or connectivity faults.
- When it comes to implementation and management, they are simpler than adaptive algorithms.
