Routing Protocols - OSPF
06.01.2010 23:02
ComputersOpen Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a popular link-state routing protocol for IP networks. OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), which, as the name implies, is an open standard routing protocol used to seek out shortest path routes just like RIP versions. Mind you, the similarities ends there!.
OSPF is specially designed for large networks. The main idea behind OSPF is internetwork areas. An area is a zone within an autonomous system comprising of a logical set of network compartment and attached devices.
The areas are used by the routing system as a way to control traffic flow and filter out unwanted routing table details. Every OSPF domain must have a backbone area with number 0. Areas are created by using the keyword area as an argument with the network command, as shown below:
RouterHQ(config-router)# network 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 area 0
This command puts the subnet 192.168.1.0 into OSPF area 0.
Main characteristics / Features of OSPF
It is classless, offering full CIDR and VLSM support,.
It scales well, converges quickly, and guarantees loop free routing.
It also supports address summarization and the tagging of external routes, similar to EIGRP.
For networks that require additional security, you can configure OSPF routers to authenticate with one another to ensure that unauthorized devices don't affect routing tables.
OSPF is an open standard routing protocol. Every vendor routing hardware and software supports it. This makes it the routing protocol of choice in multi-vendor enterprise networks. It is also frequently found in most ISP networks.
Read more on how to configure OSPF: http://www.orbit-computer-solutions.com/Basic-OSPF-Configuration.php
CCNA Certification Exam: OSPF Lab Sim: http://orbitco-ccna-pastquestions.com/Cisco-ICND-Exam%3A-OSPF-Sim.php
Chika_Nwokeoma