What role does the metric play in routing protocols?

The metric in routing protocols is a crucial value used to evaluate routes and determine the best path for data packets to travel across a network. Metrics can consider various factors, such as hop count, bandwidth, delay, reliability, and load, depending on the specific routing protocol being used. By comparing these metrics between multiple routing paths, a routing protocol can select the most efficient or optimal route for sending data.

For instance, in distance-vector protocols like RIP, the metric is typically the hop count, while in link-state protocols like OSPF, metrics can involve more complex calculations that consider link bandwidth and other parameters. Ultimately, the primary function of the metric is to guide the routing decision-making process, ensuring that data takes the most efficient path to reach its destination, thereby improving network performance and stability.