Basic OSPF

OSPF is a link-state routing protocol. Link-state protocols use the shortest path first (SPF) algorithm to populate the routing table. OSPF shares information with every router in the network.

OSPF is considered a difficult protocol to configure and requires a thorough understanding of terms that are commonly used. Table 3-1 explains briefly the common OSPF terminology used throughout this chapter.

Table 3-1. Common OSPF Terms
Term Description
Link state Information is shared between directly connected routers. This information propagates throughout the network unchanged and is also used to create a shortest path first (SPF) tree.
Area A group of routers that share the same area ID. All OSPF routers require area assignments.
Autonomous ...

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