OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) is a link-state routing protocol that is widely used in large-scale enterprise networks to support complex networks with multiple routers and balance traffic load on multiple links12. OSPF uses the Dijkstra algorithm to calculate the shortest path to each destination based on link cost, which can be influenced by bandwidth, delay, reliability, and load12. OSPF also supports hierarchical routing, which divides the network into areas and reduces the amount of routing information exchanged and processed12.
RIPv2 (Routing Information Protocol version 2) is a distance-vector routing protocol that is mainly used in small to medium-sized networks with simple topologies and low bandwidth requirements12. RIPv2 uses hop count as the metric to determine the best path to each destination, and has a maximum hop count of 15, which limits its scalability12. RIPv2 also suffers from slow convergence, routing loops, and high bandwidth consumption due to periodic updates12.
QoS (Quality of Service) is not a routing protocol, but a set of techniques and mechanisms that prioritize and manage network traffic according to different parameters, such as bandwidth, delay, jitter, packet loss, and application type13. QoS can enhance the performance and reliability of network services, especially for real-time and interactive applications, such as voice and video13. QoS can be implemented at different layers of the network, such as the application, transport, network, and data link layers13.
STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) is not a routing protocol, but a network protocol that prevents loops and ensures redundancy in switched networks by creating a logical tree topology and blocking or enabling links based on their role and state1 . STP can also dynamically adjust to network changes, such as link failures or additions, by recalculating the tree and switching the link states accordingly1 . STP operates at the data link layer and uses bridge protocol data units (BPDUs) to exchange information among switches1 .
1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Routing and Switching
2: Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Page 32: Routing Protocols
3: Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Page 36: Quality of Service
: Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Page 38: Spanning Tree Protocol
