How does static routing differ from dynamic routing?

Static routing is characterized by the requirement of manual configuration for each route in a network. Network administrators must specify the exact path that data will take to reach a particular destination. This is particularly useful in small or simple networks where routes are unlikely to change often.

In contrast, dynamic routing utilizes protocols that automatically adjust to changes in the network. These protocols enable routers to communicate with each other, sharing information about network conditions, such as route availability and changes in topology. This allows dynamic routing to automatically update and optimize the routing paths without the need for manual intervention.

The ability to manage routes manually in static routing can lead to predictable and stable routing paths, but it also means that if the network topology changes (e.g., a router goes down), the administrator must manually update the routing tables. Dynamic routing, on the other hand, adapts to changes in real-time, which can enhance network reliability and efficiency.

Overall, the distinct characteristic of static routing being manually configured, while dynamic routing handles routing updates automatically, underscores the fundamental difference between the two routing methods.