Routing protocols are a crucial component in networking systems, and they play a vital role in ensuring efficient and reliable data transmission. Among the many routing protocols available in the market, Exterior Gateway Protocol (EGP) and Interior Gateway Protocol (IGP) are the most commonly used.
EGP is an older version of a routing protocol used for communicating between different autonomous systems. It is mainly used for routing between networks that are independently managed and not interconnected through a central control point. In contrast, IGP is a routing protocol designed to be used within an autonomous system. It is used to manage and control routing within a single network or an interconnected set of networks.
One of the main differences between EGP and IGP is that EGP is an inter-autonomous system protocol, while IGP is an intra-autonomous system protocol. While both protocols are used to exchange information about available routes, EGP is designed to route between different autonomous systems, while IGP is used to route within a single autonomous system.
EGP and IGP also differ in terms of the routing algorithm used. EGP uses a path vector protocol that maps the complete path between the source and destination nodes. On the other hand, IGP uses a link-state protocol that maps the state of every link in the network. This means that EGP requires less processing power but has greater latency and overhead, while IGP requires more processing power but has lower latency and overhead.
Another significant difference between EGP and IGP is their scalability. EGP is not as scalable as IGP, and it has limitations when it comes to accommodating a vast number of networks, making it more suited for small networks. In contrast, IGP is scalable and can accommodate an extensive number of networks, making it suitable for large networks.
In terms of security, EGP is considered to be less secure compared to IGP. Since EGP operates over the internet, it is exposed to various security threats, including eavesdropping, spoofing, and man-in-the-middle attacks. IGP, on the other hand, operates within a single autonomous system, making it more secure and less exposed to external security threats.
In conclusion, EGP and IGP are two different routing protocols used for different purposes. EGP is used for routing between autonomous systems, while IGP is used for routing within a single autonomous system. The routing algorithms, scalability, and security features also differ between the two protocols. When choosing a routing protocol, it is essential to consider the specific requirements of the network and the level of security required to avoid any potential vulnerabilities.