EGP and IGP are two popular routing protocols used in networking. These protocols help devices on a network determine the best path for data to travel. However, there are significant differences between the two protocols, and it’s important to understand these differences when choosing the right one for your network. In this article, we’ll compare EGP and IGP, and help you make the right decision for your network.
What is EGP?
EGP (Exterior Gateway Protocol) is a routing protocol used to exchange information between different autonomous systems (AS). Autonomous systems are collections of networks that share a common routing policy. EGP is used to connect different AS networks on the internet and is an older protocol. The most common types of EGP are BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) and EIGRP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol).
What is IGP?
IGP (Interior Gateway Protocol) is a routing protocol used to exchange information within the same autonomous system (AS). It is used to determine the best path for data to travel within the network. There are many types of IGP, including OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) and RIP (Routing Information Protocol).
EGP vs IGP: The Differences
1. Routing Policy
EGP is used to connect different autonomous systems with different routing policies. It is used for inter-AS routing. IGP, on the other hand, is used within the same AS, and only one routing policy is used. The two routing policies may not be compatible, which can make communication between the two networks difficult.
2. Scalability
EGP is highly scalable, and it can handle large networks with many autonomous systems. IGP is less scalable and is best suited for smaller networks.
3. Routing Information
EGP carries more information about the networks it connects, including the AS number and network addresses. IGP carries less information, and it only knows about the network it is connected to.
4. Use Cases
EGP is typically used in large networks, such as the internet, where multiple autonomous systems need to communicate with each other. IGP is typically used in smaller networks, such as office or home networks.
5. Security
EGP is more secure than IGP because it is used to connect different autonomous systems. This means that each AS network can control access and security on its own network. IGP, on the other hand, is only used within a single AS network and can be vulnerable to security threats.
Conclusion
EGP and IGP are both essential routing protocols, but they serve different purposes. EGP is used to connect different autonomous systems with different routing policies, while IGP is used within the same autonomous system. When choosing the right protocol for your network, you need to consider the size of your network, the routing policies you’re using, and the level of security you require. Ultimately, the decision between EGP and IGP will depend on your specific network needs.