What is a key characteristic of link-state routing protocols?

Link-state routing protocols are designed to maintain a complete and accurate representation of the network's topology. This approach allows each router to have a map of the network that includes information about all the links and routers, not just its immediate neighbors. By having this comprehensive view, link-state protocols can calculate the best path for data transmission using algorithms such as Dijkstra's algorithm.

This characteristic of maintaining a complete topology enables routers to quickly adapt to changes in the network, such as the failure of a link or the addition of new routers. Each router independently learns about the entire network by exchanging link-state advertisements (LSAs) with other routers, ensuring that all routers build the same network topology view.

In contrast, other routing protocols, such as distance-vector protocols, rely on periodic updates or information from neighboring routers, lacking a complete view of the network and potentially leading to slower convergence times and less efficiency in routing decisions.