AUTOMATIC NETWORK ROUTING Meaning and
Definition
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Automatic network routing is a process used in computer networks to dynamically determine the most efficient and optimal path for data packets to travel from one network to another. It involves the automatic selection and configuration of network routes based on certain criteria such as cost, speed, availability, and congestion.
In an automatic network routing system, routers or switches analyze various factors and make intelligent decisions about how to forward data packets to their intended destinations. This analysis is typically based on a routing protocol, which is a set of rules and algorithms that routers use to exchange information and make routing decisions.
The goal of automatic network routing is to maximize the efficiency and performance of the network by selecting the best possible route for each packet. This includes avoiding congested or malfunctioning links, selecting paths with low latency, and balancing traffic across multiple available routes.
Automatic network routing systems often employ algorithms such as the shortest path algorithm or the link-state routing algorithm to calculate the optimal route. These algorithms take into account factors such as link bandwidth, reliability, and the current network traffic conditions.
By automatically determining the most appropriate path for data packets to follow, automatic network routing ensures that network resources are utilized effectively and that data transmission is efficient and reliable. This process is especially crucial in large and complex network environments where manual configuration and administration of routes would be impractical or impossible to implement.
