What is the function of the Next Hop in IP routing?

In IP routing, the Next Hop refers to the immediate destination address that a packet reaches on its way to the final destination. This is an essential concept in routing because it dictates where a packet is sent next after it leaves the current router. The Next Hop is usually a neighboring router that is one step closer to the final destination.

When data packets are transmitted across a network, they do not always go directly from the source to the destination. Instead, they pass through several routers, each forwarding the packets based on their routing tables and the Next Hop entries. The routers use this information to determine the most efficient path for the packet based on factors such as network topology and current traffic conditions.

This mechanism is crucial for maintaining efficient communication within large and complex networks, allowing for dynamic routing adjustments as network conditions change. The concept of the Next Hop ensures that data packets efficiently traverse multiple links and routers until they reach their ultimate destination.