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What is routing?
Routing is the process of moving packets through an internetwork, such as the Internet.
Routing actually consists of two separate, but related, tasks:
- Defining paths for the transmission of packets through an internetwork.
- Forwarding packets based upon the defined paths.
Routing vs. Bridging and Switching
Routing is distinguished from bridging or switching by operating at the Network Layer of the OSI Model. Bridging and switching occur on the Data Link Layer.
Static vs. Dynamic Routing
Routing can be accomplished by manually entering the information necessary for packets to reach any part of the internetwork into each router. This is called static routing.
Static routing works reasonably well for very small networks, but does not scale well. When using static routing, the routing tables on each router must be updated each time the network topology changes -- such as when a network link fails..
In most networks, routing is managed automatically through the use of dynamic routing. In dynamic routing, routing protocols create and maintain the routing tables automatically. Dynamic routing responds much more quickly to network changes (and network failures) than static routing.
Books on Routing
 Routing TCP/IP Volume I |
This all-encompassing TCP/IP text defines completeness with its one-thousand-plus pages and hundreds of configuration screens, exercises, charts, tables, and references. Though initially overwhelming, such thoroughness is what's demanded of those who ultimately pass the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) exam, the bruising test for which Routing TCP/IP, Volume 1 serves as preparatory material.
Such a goal is evidenced in much of the three-part book's design. For example, nearly every chapter includes some combination of recommended readings, review questions, configuration and troubleshooting exercises, case studies, and summaries. In addition, there are numerous appendices devoted to answers to questions and exercise solutions as well as one that outlines exam preparation tips. Doyle begins this volume with a review of several basic topics, including a chapter that outlines the parameters of TCP/IP itself. Though some may already be familiar with that material, the sections on dynamic and static routing serve as valuable review material for readers of all levels. The second part deals with TCP/IP interior routing protocols, such as Routing Information Protocol (RIP), Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP), and Open Shortest Path First (OSPF). The book ends on a challenging note with explanations of route redistribution, route filtering, and the like. Routing TCP/IP is required reading for those readers with the ambitious goal to both understand the protocol and excel on the CCIE exam. |
 IP Routing Fundamentals | A comprehensive ntroduction to routing concepts and protocols in IP networks.Comprehensive review of the operational mechanics of today's leading routing protocols, including IGRP, EIGRP, OSPF, RIP, and RIP-2. Detailed explanation of IP addressing, including classful and classless addresses, subnetting, supernetting, Classless Interdomain Routing (CIDR), and Variable Length Subnet Masks (VLSM). Side-by-side comparisons of various LAN segmentation technologies, including bridges, switches, and routersExploration of how routers are used to build wide area networksExamination of the future of routing, including IPv6, next generation routing protocols, host-based routing, and IP SwitchingIP Routing Fundamentals is the definitive introduction to routing in IP networks. This comprehensive tome explores the mechanics of routers, routing protocols, network interfaces, and operating systems. This reference provides essential background information for network professionals who are deploying and maintaining LANs and WANs, as well as IT managers who are seeking information on how evolving internetworking technology will affect future networks. Part I discusses the many roles routers play in networks, Part II talks about the inner working of routers, Part III works with the operational issues of routing protocols, and Part IV addresses implementation issues that provide practical insight, in addition to a discussion of the future of routing. |
 Teach Yourself Routing in 24 Hours | Learn routing in the most efficient, enjoyable way possible with Sams Teach Yourself Routing in 24 Hours. Book presents routing concepts in a vendor-neutral presentation. The book is full of insight from the author's extensive knowledge and experience. Each lesson is designed to build upon previous lessons, but many can be read separately, thus providing the reader with a tutorial for routing basics as well as a means of learning about a particular routing concept quickly. Sams Teach Yourself Routing in 24 Hours presents routing fundamentals in twenty-four easy to follow lessons that build upon the previous lessons. Each of these lessons could stand alone as a tutorial on a particular routing concept thereby adding greater value to the book. In additional to these "easy to follow" lessons, this book is full of useful notes, tips, and cautions from the author's extensive experience that will prove invaluable to anyone who wants to learn routing as quickly as possible. The reader will also benefit from the exercises (each one based on an actual experience the author has encountered) at the end of each chapter. |
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