Protocol Type

Distance Vector protocols such as RIP base routing metrics exclusively on hop counts, while Link state protocols such as OSPF consider the state of the link when determining metrics. For example, OSPF determines interface metrics by dividing its reference bandwidth (100mbits by default) by the interface speed – the faster the link, the lower the cost and the more preferable the path. Consider the example network shown in Example network for determining lowest cost route:

Example Network for Determining Lowest Cost Route

In the sample network shown in Example Network for Determining Lowest Cost Route, if Host A wanted to reach Host B, with RIP, the lowest cost route would be from Router A to Router B, across the relatively slow 64kbps link. With OSPF, the cost from Router A to Router B would be 1562, while the cost from Router A to Router C to Router D to Router B would be 364, making it the preferred route.