How is static routing defined in networking?

Static routing is defined as a method where routes are manually configured by the network administrator. This involves physically entering the route information into the routing table using predefined paths. Unlike dynamic routing, which automatically adapts routes based on changing network conditions and utilizes protocols to share route information among devices, static routing requires a conscious decision to specify the routes. This can lead to straightforward route management, as the configured routes remain unchanged unless they are manually modified.

Manual configuration can be beneficial in smaller, simpler networks where the path does not change frequently, as it allows for deterministic routing. However, it also means that any changes in the network topology require manual updates to the routes. Therefore, understanding that static routing relies entirely on manual input is key to appreciating how route management operates in a network setting.