Which protocol is recognized for its quick convergence and mechanism to prevent loops?

The choice of Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) as the correct answer is grounded in its design features that prioritize quick convergence and loop prevention mechanisms. EIGRP is known for its advanced capabilities that combine the benefits of distance-vector and link-state protocols, allowing it to make quicker routing decisions.

One of EIGRP's key strengths is its use of the Diffusing Update Algorithm (DUAL), which ensures loop-free routing within an autonomous system. This algorithm allows routers to maintain a topology and calculate the best paths without creating routing loops, which can be a significant issue in larger networks. When a change in the network topology occurs, EIGRP quickly recalculates routes, providing rapid convergence—typically in seconds—ensuring minimal disruption in network connectivity.

Additionally, EIGRP utilizes a neighbor table and topology table, helping to maintain quick communication between routers and ensuring that they have up-to-date route information. This combination of features makes EIGRP particularly efficient in scenarios requiring rapid recovery from topology changes, emphasizing its suitability for environments that demand fast convergence.

Comparatively, although protocols like RIP and OSPF also work to maintain routing information, they do not match the speed and efficiency of EIGRP in both convergence time and loop