EIGRP or OSPF

[Bikas Giri]

Hi,

Which dynamic routing is the best, EIGRP or OSPF and why ? How can we use both of the routing in same router ? What is the best practise ?

Thanks in advance,

Bikas

[Ivan Krimmel]

Hi Bikas,

the best is the one which suits the network requirements best and hardware/software capabilities, as well as network personnel's background.

It is better not to use multiple routings on a box, usually it is just a temporariry workaround being in use while migration achieved through the 'redistribution'.

HTH,

Ivan.

[Bikas Giri]

Hi Ivan,

Can you please explain in detail, if possible with example.

Bikas

[Ivan Krimmel · Accepted solution]

Bikas,

it could take a few screens to explain this question in a more detailed way, the best answer I gave you earlier - it is simple, but very wise ;)

In general, OSPF/ISIS are for large multivendor environments with scalability in mind, where there's a need for their special capabilities like opaque LSA/extended TLVs for TE support, multitopology support(ISIS), hierarchical design etc. EIGRP is better for a mid-scale Cisco-only shop, though there're rumors it has been licensed to some other networking vendors as well - I never have seen one. It is pretty rapid, has some unique features like unequal load-sharing, feasible successor and multiprotocol support.

I found this handy article for you which sums up these general things to remember:

http://www.techrepublic.com/article/select-the-right-routing-protocol-for-your-network/1040261

also this is the techtorial about the redistribution:

http://blog.ine.com/2008/02/09/understanding-redistribution-part-i/

Check them out and let us know whether you have any other questions.

Cheers,

Ivan.