Which are the two main types of routing protocols?

The two main types of routing protocols are categorized as Interior Gateway Protocols (IGP) and Exterior Gateway Protocols (EGP). This classification is significant because it defines how routing information is exchanged between different networks.

Interior Gateway Protocols operate within a single autonomous system (AS). These protocols help routers determine the best paths for data through the internal networks of an organization. Examples include OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) and RIP (Routing Information Protocol). On the other hand, Exterior Gateway Protocols are used for routing between different autonomous systems. The most well-known example of an EGP is BGP (Border Gateway Protocol), which is essential for Internet routing.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for network design and operation, as it impacts how routes are communicated and managed across complex network infrastructures.