What is the purpose of a routed protocol?

A routed protocol establishes the method used to transport data across networks. IP is the most common routed protocol because it provides logical addressing and packet structure that routers can forward between networks. This differs from a routing protocol, which is used by routers to exchange route information and determine forwarding paths. Answer D describes a routing protocol function, not a routed protocol. Answer B is also closer to route selection, though routing decisions may consider metrics rather than simply “fastest.” Answer A is not a standard definition. Understanding this distinction prevents confusion: routed protocols carry user data, while routing protocols help infrastructure decide where to send that data. Examples of routing protocols include OSPF, BGP, and RIP; they advertise reachability and path information. Routed protocols, such as IP, define how packets are addressed and transported across routed networks. Reference/topics: Network Fundamentals 2.5, routed protocols and routing protocols.