4 Routing Explained

Routing is a fundamental concept in networking that involves directing data packets from a source to a destination across multiple networks. Understanding routing is crucial for network administrators, especially when preparing for the MikroTik Certified Network Associate (MTCNA) certification. This guide will walk you through the key concepts and steps involved in routing.

Key Concepts

1. Static Routing

Static routing involves manually configuring routes on a router. This method is suitable for small networks with predictable traffic patterns. Static routes are manually defined paths that direct traffic to specific networks.

2. Dynamic Routing

Dynamic routing involves using routing protocols to automatically exchange routing information between routers. This method is suitable for large networks with complex traffic patterns. Dynamic routing protocols include OSPF, BGP, and RIP.

3. Default Routing

Default routing involves configuring a default route that directs all traffic to a specific gateway when no specific route is defined. This method is useful for directing traffic to the internet or other external networks.

4. Policy-Based Routing

Policy-based routing involves using policies to determine the path for data packets based on criteria such as source IP address, destination IP address, and application type. This method is useful for implementing advanced routing policies.

Detailed Explanation

Static Routing

Static routes are manually configured paths that direct traffic to specific networks. For example, to configure a static route on a MikroTik router, you would use the command:

This command sets up a route to the 192.168.2.0/24 network via the gateway 192.168.1.254.

Dynamic Routing

Dynamic routing protocols automatically exchange routing information between routers. For example, to configure OSPF on a MikroTik router, you would use the commands:

These commands configure OSPF on the router and define the network area.

Default Routing

Default routing directs all traffic to a specific gateway when no specific route is defined. For example, to configure a default route on a MikroTik router, you would use the command:

This command sets up a default route to the gateway 192.168.1.254.

Policy-Based Routing

Policy-based routing uses policies to determine the path for data packets. For example, to configure policy-based routing on a MikroTik router, you would use the commands:

These commands configure a policy to route traffic from the source IP address 192.168.1.10 to the 192.168.2.0/24 network.

Examples and Analogies

Static Routing

Think of static routing as a map with predefined routes. Just as you follow a specific path on a map, data packets follow predefined paths on a network.

Dynamic Routing

Consider dynamic routing as a GPS system that automatically updates routes based on traffic conditions. Just as a GPS system adjusts routes in real-time, dynamic routing protocols adjust routes based on network conditions.

Default Routing

Imagine default routing as a default route on a GPS system that directs you to the nearest highway when no specific route is defined. Just as a default route on a GPS system directs you to the nearest highway, a default route on a router directs traffic to a specific gateway.

Policy-Based Routing

Think of policy-based routing as a traffic management system that directs traffic based on specific criteria. Just as a traffic management system directs traffic based on specific criteria, policy-based routing directs data packets based on specific criteria.

By mastering these routing concepts, you can effectively manage and configure network devices, making you a proficient network administrator.