Classification of Routing Algorithms
Last Updated :
11 Jul, 2025
Pre-requisites: Difference between Static and Dynamic Routing
Routing is the process of establishing the routes that data packets must follow to reach the destination. In this process, a routing table is created which contains information regarding routes that data packets follow. Various routing algorithms are used for the purpose of deciding which route an incoming data packet needs to be transmitted on to reach the destination efficiently.
Classification of Routing Algorithms
The routing algorithms can be classified as follows:
- Adaptive Algorithms
- Non-Adaptive Algorithms
- Hybrid Algorithms
Types of Routing Algorithm1. Adaptive Algorithms
These are the algorithms that change their routing decisions whenever network topology or traffic load changes. The changes in routing decisions are reflected in the topology as well as the traffic of the network. Also known as dynamic routing, these make use of dynamic information such as current topology, load, delay, etc. to select routes. Optimization parameters are distance, number of hops, and estimated transit time.
Further, these are classified as follows:
- Isolated: In this method each, node makes its routing decisions using the information it has without seeking information from other nodes. The sending nodes don't have information about the status of a particular link. The disadvantage is that packets may be sent through a congested network which may result in delay. Examples: Hot potato routing, and backward learning.
- Centralized: In this method, a centralized node has entire information about the network and makes all the routing decisions. The advantage of this is only one node is required to keep the information of the entire network and the disadvantage is that if the central node goes down the entire network is done. The link state algorithm is referred to as a centralized algorithm since it is aware of the cost of each link in the network.
- Distributed: In this method, the node receives information from its neighbors and then takes the decision about routing the packets. A disadvantage is that the packet may be delayed if there is a change in between intervals in which it receives information and sends packets. It is also known as a decentralized algorithm as it computes the least-cost path between source and destination.
2. Non-Adaptive Algorithms
These are the algorithms that do not change their routing decisions once they have been selected. This is also known as static routing as a route to be taken is computed in advance and downloaded to routers when a router is booted.
Further, these are classified as follows:
- Flooding: This adapts the technique in which every incoming packet is sent on every outgoing line except from which it arrived. One problem with this is that packets may go in a loop and as a result of which a node may receive duplicate packets. These problems can be overcome with the help of sequence numbers, hop count, and spanning trees.
- Random walk: In this method, packets are sent host by host or node by node to one of its neighbors randomly. This is a highly robust method that is usually implemented by sending packets onto the link which is least queued.
Random Walk3. Hybrid Algorithms
As the name suggests, these algorithms are a combination of both adaptive and non-adaptive algorithms. In this approach, the network is divided into several regions, and each region uses a different algorithm.
Further, these are classified as follows:
- Link-state: In this method, each router creates a detailed and complete map of the network which is then shared with all other routers. This allows for more accurate and efficient routing decisions to be made.
- Distance vector: In this method, each router maintains a table that contains information about the distance and direction to every other node in the network. This table is then shared with other routers in the network. The disadvantage of this method is that it may lead to routing loops.
Difference between Adaptive and Non-Adaptive Routing Algorithms
The main difference between Adaptive and Non-Adaptive Algorithms is:
Adaptive Algorithms are the algorithms that change their routing decisions whenever network topology or traffic load changes. It is called Dynamic Routing. Adaptive Algorithm is used in a large amount of data, highly complex network, and rerouting of data.
Non-Adaptive Algorithms are algorithms that do not change their routing decisions once they have been selected. It is also called static Routing. Non-Adaptive Algorithm is used in case of a small amount of data and a less complex network.
For more differences, you can refer to Differences between Adaptive and Non-Adaptive Routing Algorithms.
Types of Routing Protocol in Computer Networks
1. Routing information protocol (RIP)
One of the earliest protocols developed is the inner gateway protocol, or RIP. we can use it with local area networks (LANs), that are linked computers in a short range, or wide area networks (WANs), which are telecom networks that cover a big range. Hop counts are used by the Routing Information Protocol (RIP) to calculate the shortest path between networks.
2. Interior gateway protocol (IGRP)
IGRP was developed by the multinational technology corporation Cisco. It makes use of many of the core features of RIP but raises the maximum number of supported hops to 100. It might therefore function better on larger networks. IGRPs are elegant and distance-vector protocols. In order to work, IGRP requires comparisons across indicators such as load, reliability, and network capacity. Additionally, this kind updates automatically when things change, such as the route. This aids in the prevention of routing loops, which are mistakes that result in an unending data transfer cycle.
3. Exterior Gateway Protocol (EGP)
Exterior gateway protocols, such as EGP, are helpful for transferring data or information between several gateway hosts in autonomous systems. In particular, it aids in giving routers the room they need to exchange data between domains, such as the internet.
4. Enhanced interior gateway routing protocol (EIGRP)
This kind is categorised as a classless protocol, inner gateway, and distance vector routing. In order to maximise efficiency, it makes use of the diffusing update method and the dependable transport protocol. A router can use the tables of other routers to obtain information and store it for later use. Every router communicates with its neighbour when something changes so that everyone is aware of which data paths are active. It stops routers from miscommunicating with one another. The only external gateway protocol is called Border Gateway Protocol (BGP).
5. Open shortest path first (OSPF)
OSPF is an inner gateway, link state, and classless protocol that makes use of the shortest path first (SPF) algorithm to guarantee effective data transfer. Multiple databases containing topology tables and details about the network as a whole are maintained by it. The ads, which resemble reports, provide thorough explanations of the path's length and potential resource requirements. When topology changes, OSPF recalculates paths using the Dijkstra algorithm. In order to guarantee that its data is safe from modifications or network intrusions, it also employs authentication procedures. Using OSPF can be advantageous for both large and small network organisations because to its scalability features.
6. Border gateway protocol (BGP)
Another kind of outer gateway protocol that was first created to take the role of EGP is called BGP. It is also a distance vector protocol since it performs data package transfers using the best path selection technique. BGP defines communication over the internet. The internet is a vast network of interconnected autonomous systems. Every autonomous system has autonomous system number (ASN) that it receives by registering with the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority.
Difference between Routing and Flooding
The difference between Routing and Flooding is listed below:
| Routing | Flooding |
|---|
| A routing table is required. | No Routing table is required. |
| May give the shortest path. | Always gives the shortest path. |
| Less Reliable. | More Reliable. |
| Traffic is less. | Traffic is high. |
| No duplicate packets. | Duplicate packets are present. |
Similar Reads
Computer Network Tutorial A Computer Network is a system where two or more devices are linked together to share data, resources and information. These networks can range from simple setups, like connecting two devices in your home, to massive global systems, like the Internet. Below are some uses of computer networksSharing
6 min read
Computer Network Basics
Basics of Computer NetworkingA computer network is a collection of interconnected devices that share resources and information. These devices can include computers, servers, printers, and other hardware. Networks allow for the efficient exchange of data, enabling various applications such as email, file sharing, and internet br
10 min read
Types of Computer NetworksA computer network is a system that connects many independent computers to share information (data) and resources. The integration of computers and other different devices allows users to communicate more easily. It is a collection of two or more computer systems that are linked together. A network
7 min read
Introduction to InternetComputers and their structures are tough to approach, and it is made even extra tough when you want to recognize phrases associated with the difficulty this is already utilized in regular English, Network, and the net will appear to be absolutely wonderful from one some other, however, they may seem
10 min read
Types of Network TopologyNetwork topology refers to the arrangement of different elements like nodes, links, or devices in a computer network. Common types of network topology include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree topologies, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss different types of n
11 min read
Network DevicesNetwork devices are physical devices that allow hardware on a computer network to communicate and interact with each other. Network devices like hubs, repeaters, bridges, switches, routers, gateways, and brouter help manage and direct data flow in a network. They ensure efficient communication betwe
9 min read
What is OSI Model? - Layers of OSI ModelThe OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a set of rules that explains how different computer systems communicate over a network. OSI Model was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The OSI Model consists of 7 layers and each layer has specific functions and re
13 min read
TCP/IP ModelThe TCP/IP model is a framework that is used to model the communication in a network. It is mainly a collection of network protocols and organization of these protocols in different layers for modeling the network.It has four layers, Application, Transport, Network/Internet and Network Access.While
7 min read
Difference Between OSI Model and TCP/IP ModelData communication is a process or act in which we can send or receive data. Understanding the fundamental structures of networking is crucial for anyone working with computer systems and communication. For data communication two models are available, the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model, an
4 min read
Physical Layer
Physical Layer in OSI ModelThe physical Layer is the bottom-most layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) Model which is a physical and electrical representation of the system. It consists of various network components such as power plugs, connectors, receivers, cable types, etc. The physical layer sends data bits from
4 min read
Types of Network TopologyNetwork topology refers to the arrangement of different elements like nodes, links, or devices in a computer network. Common types of network topology include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree topologies, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss different types of n
11 min read
Transmission Modes in Computer Networks (Simplex, Half-Duplex and Full-Duplex)Transmission modes also known as communication modes, are methods of transferring data between devices on buses and networks designed to facilitate communication. They are classified into three types: Simplex Mode, Half-Duplex Mode, and Full-Duplex Mode. In this article, we will discuss Transmission
6 min read
Types of Transmission MediaTransmission media is the physical medium through which data is transmitted from one device to another within a network. These media can be wired or wireless. The choice of medium depends on factors like distance, speed, and interference. In this article, we will discuss the transmission media. In t
9 min read
Data Link Layer
Data Link Layer in OSI ModelThe data link layer is the second layer from the bottom in the OSI (Open System Interconnection) network architecture model. Responsible for the node-to-node delivery of data within the same local network. Major role is to ensure error-free transmission of information. Also responsible for encoding,
4 min read
What is Switching?Switching is the process of transferring data packets from one device to another in a network, or from one network to another, using specific devices called switches. A computer user experiences switching all the time for example, accessing the Internet from your computer device, whenever a user req
5 min read
Virtual LAN (VLAN)Virtual LAN (VLAN) is a concept in which we can divide the devices logically on layer 2 (data link layer). Generally, layer 3 devices divide the broadcast domain but the broadcast domain can be divided by switches using the concept of VLAN. A broadcast domain is a network segment in which if a devic
7 min read
Framing in Data Link LayerFrames are the units of digital transmission, particularly in computer networks and telecommunications. Frames are comparable to the packets of energy called photons in the case of light energy. Frame is continuously used in Time Division Multiplexing process. Framing is a point-to-point connection
6 min read
Error Control in Data Link LayerData-link layer uses the techniques of error control simply to ensure and confirm that all the data frames or packets, i.e. bit streams of data, are transmitted or transferred from sender to receiver with certain accuracy. Using or providing error control at this data link layer is an optimization,
4 min read
Flow Control in Data Link LayerFlow control is design issue at Data Link Layer. It is a technique that generally observes the proper flow of data from sender to receiver. It is very essential because it is possible for sender to transmit data or information at very fast rate and hence receiver can receive this information and pro
4 min read
Piggybacking in Computer NetworksPiggybacking is the technique of delaying outgoing acknowledgment temporarily and attaching it to the next data packet. When a data frame arrives, the receiver waits and does not send the control frame (acknowledgment) back immediately. The receiver waits until its network layer moves to the next da
5 min read
Network Layer
Network Layer in OSI ModelThe Network Layer is the 5th Layer from the top and the 3rd layer from the Bottom of the OSI Model. It is one of the most important layers which plays a key role in data transmission. The main job of this layer is to maintain the quality of the data and pass and transmit it from its source to its de
5 min read
Introduction of Classful IP AddressingClassful IP addressing is an obsolete method for allocating IP addresses and dividing the available IP address space across networks. It was used from 1981 to 1993 until the introduction of CIDR (Based on Prefixes rather than classes). Classful method categorizes IP addresses into five classes (A, B
10 min read
Classless Addressing in IP AddressingThe Network address identifies a network on the internet. Using this, we can find a range of addresses in the network and total possible number of hosts in the network. Mask is a 32-bit binary number that gives the network address in the address block when AND operation is bitwise applied on the mas
7 min read
What is an IP Address?Imagine every device on the internet as a house. For you to send a letter to a friend living in one of these houses, you need their home address. In the digital world, this home address is what we call an IP (Internet Protocol) Address. It's a unique string of numbers separated by periods (IPv4) or
14 min read
IPv4 Datagram HeaderIP stands for Internet Protocol and v4 stands for Version Four (IPv4). IPv4 was the primary version brought into action for production within the ARPANET in 1983. IP version four addresses are 32-bit integers which will be expressed in decimal notation. In this article, we will discuss about IPv4 da
4 min read
Difference Between IPv4 and IPv6IPv4 and IPv6 are two versions of the system that gives devices a unique address on the internet, known as the Internet Protocol (IP). IP is like a set of rules that helps devices send and receive data online. Since the internet is made up of billions of connected devices, each one needs its own spe
7 min read
Difference between Private and Public IP addressesIP Address or Internet Protocol Address is a type of address that is required to communicate one computer with another computer for exchanging information, file, webpage, etc. Public and Private IP address are two important parts of device identity. In this article, we will see the differences betwe
6 min read
Introduction To SubnettingSubnetting is the process of dividing a large network into smaller networks called "subnets." Subnets provide each group of devices with their own space to communicate, which ultimately helps the network to work easily. This also boosts security and makes it easier to manage the network, as each sub
8 min read
What is Routing?The process of choosing a path across one or more networks is known as Network Routing. Nowadays, individuals are more connected on the internet and hence, the need to use Routing Communication is essential.Routing chooses the routes along which Internet Protocol (IP) packets get from their source t
10 min read
Network Layer ProtocolsNetwork Layer is responsible for the transmission of data or communication from one host to another host connected in a network. Rather than describing how data is transferred, it implements the technique for efficient transmission. In order to provide efficient communication protocols are used at t
9 min read
Transport Layer
Session Layer & Presentation Layer
Session Layer in OSI modelThe Session Layer is the 5th layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model which plays an important role in controlling the dialogues (connections) between computers. This layer is responsible for setting up, coordinating, and terminating conversations, exchanges, and dialogues between the ap
6 min read
Presentation Layer in OSI modelPresentation Layer is the 6th layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This layer is also known as Translation layer, as this layer serves as a data translator for the network. The data which this layer receives from the Application Layer is extracted and manipulated here as per the req
4 min read
Secure Socket Layer (SSL)SSL or Secure Sockets Layer, is an Internet security protocol that encrypts data to keep it safe. It was created by Netscape in 1995 to ensure privacy, authentication, and data integrity in online communications. SSL is the older version of what we now call TLS (Transport Layer Security).Websites us
10 min read
PPTP Full Form - Point-to-Point Tunneling ProtocolPPTP Stands for Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol is a widely used networking protocol designed to create a secure private connection over a public network like the internet. It is Developed by Microsoft and other tech companies in the 1990s It is one of the first protocols used for Virtual Private
5 min read
Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension (MIME) ProtocolMIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) is a standard used to extend the format of email messages, allowing them to include more than just text. It enables the transmission of multimedia content such as images, audio, video, and attachments, within email messages, as well as other types of cont
4 min read
Application Layer
Application Layer in OSI ModelThe Application Layer of OSI (Open System Interconnection) model, is the top layer in this model and takes care of network communication. The application layer provides the functionality to send and receive data from users. It acts as the interface between the user and the application. The applicati
5 min read
Client-Server ModelThe Client-Server Model is a distributed architecture where clients request services and servers provide them. Clients send requests to servers, which process them and return the results. Clients don’t share resources among themselves but depend on the server. Common examples include email systems a
5 min read
World Wide Web (WWW)The World Wide Web (WWW), often called the Web, is a system of interconnected webpages and information that you can access using the Internet. It was created to help people share and find information easily, using links that connect different pages together. The Web allows us to browse websites, wat
6 min read
Introduction to Electronic MailIntroduction:Electronic mail, commonly known as email, is a method of exchanging messages over the internet. Here are the basics of email:An email address: This is a unique identifier for each user, typically in the format of [email protected] email client: This is a software program used to send,
4 min read
What is a Content Distribution Network and how does it work?Over the last few years, there has been a huge increase in the number of Internet users. YouTube alone has 2 Billion users worldwide, while Netflix has over 160 million users. Streaming content to such a wide demographic of users is no easy task. One can think that a straightforward approach to this
4 min read
Protocols in Application LayerThe Application Layer is the topmost layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This layer provides several ways for manipulating the data which enables any type of user to access the network with ease. The Application Layer interface directly interacts with the application and provides c
7 min read
Advanced Topics
What is Network Security?Network security is defined as the activity created to protect the integrity of your network and data. Network security is the practice of protecting a computer network from unauthorized access, misuse, or attacks. It involves using tools, technologies, policies and procedures to ensure the confiden
9 min read
Computer Network | Quality of Service and MultimediaQuality of Service (QoS) is an important concept, particularly when working with multimedia applications. Multimedia applications, such as video conferencing, streaming services, and VoIP (Voice over IP), require certain bandwidth, latency, jitter, and packet loss parameters. QoS methods help ensure
7 min read
Authentication in Computer NetworkPrerequisite - Authentication and Authorization Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or information. User authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user when that user logs in to a computer system. There are different types of authentication systems wh
4 min read
Encryption, Its Algorithms And Its FutureEncryption plays a vital role in today’s digital world, serving a major role in modern cyber security. It involves converting plain text into cipher text, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure from unauthorized access. By making data unreadable to unauthorized parties, encryption helps
10 min read
Introduction of Firewall in Computer NetworkA firewall is a network security device either hardware or software-based which monitors all incoming and outgoing traffic and based on a defined set of security rules it accepts, rejects, or drops that specific traffic. It acts like a security guard that helps keep your digital world safe from unwa
10 min read
MAC Filtering in Computer NetworkThere are two kinds of network Adapters. A wired adapter allows us to set up a connection to a modem or router via Ethernet in a computer whereas a wireless adapter identifies and connects to remote hot spots. Each adapter has a distinct label known as a MAC address which recognizes and authenticate
10 min read
Wi-Fi Standards ExplainedWi-Fi stands for Wireless Fidelity, and it is developed by an organization called IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) they set standards for the Wi-Fi system. Each Wi-Fi network standard has two parameters : Speed - This is the data transfer rate of the network measured in Mbps
4 min read
What is Bluetooth?Bluetooth is used for short-range wireless voice and data communication. It is a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) technology and is used for data communications over smaller distances. This generation changed into being invented via Ericson in 1994. It operates within the unlicensed, business,
6 min read
Generations of wireless communicationWe have made very huge improvements in wireless communication and have expanded the capabilities of our wireless communication system. We all have seen various generations in our life. Let's discuss them one by one. 0th Generation: Pre-cell phone mobile telephony technology, such as radio telephones
2 min read
Cloud NetworkingCloud Networking is a service or science in which a company’s networking procedure is hosted on a public or private cloud. Cloud Computing is source management in which more than one computing resources share an identical platform and customers are additionally enabled to get entry to these resource
11 min read
Practice
Top 50 Plus Networking Interview Questions and Answers for 2024Networking is defined as connected devices that may exchange data or information and share resources. A computer network connects computers to exchange data via a communication media. Computer networking is the most often asked question at leading organizations such Cisco, Accenture, Uber, Airbnb, G
15+ min read
Top 50 TCP/IP Interview Questions and Answers 2025Understanding TCP/IP is essential for anyone working in IT or networking. It's a fundamental part of how the internet and most networks operate. Whether you're just starting or you're looking to move up in your career, knowing TCP/IP inside and out can really give you an edge.In this interview prepa
15+ min read
Top 50 IP Addressing Interview Questions and AnswersIn today’s digital age, every device connected to the internet relies on a unique identifier called an IP Address. If you’re aiming for a career in IT or networking, mastering the concept of IP addresses is crucial. In this engaging blog post, we’ll explore the most commonly asked IP address intervi
15+ min read
Last Minute Notes for Computer NetworksComputer Networks is an important subject in the GATE Computer Science syllabus. It encompasses fundamental concepts like Network Models, Routing Algorithms, Congestion Control, TCP/IP Protocol Suite, and Network Security. These topics are essential for understanding how data is transmitted, managed
14 min read
Computer Network - Cheat SheetA computer network is an interconnected computing device that can exchange data and share resources. These connected devices use a set of rules called communication protocols to transfer information over physical or wireless technology. Modern networks offer more than just connectivity. Enterprises
15+ min read