What does the term "routing table" refer to?

The term "routing table" specifically refers to a database maintained by a router that contains routes to various network destinations. This table is fundamental to the operation of routing protocols, as it informs the router of the best paths to direct packets toward their intended addresses. Each entry in this table details the destination IP address alongside the next-hop address, which facilitates efficient packet forwarding through the network.

When a router receives a packet, it checks the routing table to determine the best path for the packet based on the destination address. This ensures that data is routed optimally across interconnected networks, helping to minimize delays and improve overall network performance. The information contained in the routing table is dynamically updated through routing protocols like OSPF, BGP, or RIP, allowing the router to adapt to changes in the network, such as link failures or new network paths.

The other choices refer to distinct concepts that do not encapsulate the function or definition of a routing table. For example, records of network device configurations pertain to the settings and parameters of devices rather than routing paths. A log of recently received data packets relates to monitoring and troubleshooting rather than routing decisions. Lastly, managing network traffic generally describes broader strategies that encompass traffic shaping and flow management, which extend beyond simply directing