CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

What is a common method for ensuring routers can avoid routing loops?

1. Implementing load balancing

2. Using a static path

3. Setting a Time to Live (TTL)

4. Increasing network redundancy

The correct answer is: Setting a Time to Live (TTL)

One effective method to prevent routing loops is by setting a Time to Live (TTL) value. TTL is a mechanism used in computer networking to limit the lifespan of packets. When a packet is sent through the network, it is assigned a TTL value that decrements by one each time the packet is routed by a device. When the TTL reaches zero, the packet is discarded. This approach is critical in avoiding routing loops because it ensures that if a packet gets caught in a loop due to misconfigured routes or network issues, it will eventually be discarded instead of circulating indefinitely. In contrast, load balancing distributes network traffic across multiple paths but doesn't specifically manage routing loops. Using a static path may simplify routing in a network but it can’t dynamically adapt or prevent the occurrence of loops in case of changes in the network topology. Increasing network redundancy can improve availability and fault tolerance but can also sometimes worsen the situation if not managed correctly, potentially leading to more complex routing scenarios. Thus, setting a TTL is crucial for maintaining the integrity of routing and ensuring packets do not endlessly circulate in loops.