BGP vs. EIGRP

Attribute	BGP	EIGRP
Routing Protocol Type	Exterior Gateway Protocol	Interior Gateway Protocol
Administrative Distance	20	90
Path Selection	Based on policies and attributes	Based on bandwidth and delay
Convergence Time	Slow convergence	Fast convergence
Scalability	Highly scalable	Less scalable

Introduction

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) and Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) are two popular routing protocols used in computer networks. While both protocols serve the purpose of routing packets from one network to another, they have distinct differences in terms of their attributes and functionalities. In this article, we will compare the attributes of BGP and EIGRP to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Scalability

One of the key differences between BGP and EIGRP is their scalability. BGP is designed for large-scale networks, making it suitable for internet service providers and large enterprises with complex network infrastructures. BGP can handle a large number of routes and is capable of supporting diverse routing policies. On the other hand, EIGRP is more suitable for smaller networks with less complexity. EIGRP uses a hierarchical design that limits the number of routers that need to maintain routing information, making it less scalable compared to BGP.

Convergence

Another important attribute to consider when comparing BGP and EIGRP is convergence. Convergence refers to the time it takes for a routing protocol to update its routing tables in response to network changes. BGP has a slower convergence time compared to EIGRP. This is because BGP relies on the exchange of full routing tables between peers, which can take longer to propagate changes throughout the network. In contrast, EIGRP uses a more efficient algorithm that allows for faster convergence, making it more suitable for networks that require quick response times to network changes.

Path Selection

When it comes to path selection, BGP and EIGRP have different mechanisms for determining the best path for routing packets. BGP uses a policy-based routing approach, where administrators can define routing policies based on factors such as AS path length, route preference, and network attributes. This allows for more granular control over routing decisions in BGP. On the other hand, EIGRP uses a metric-based approach, where the best path is determined based on a composite metric that takes into account factors such as bandwidth, delay, reliability, and load. While EIGRP provides a simpler path selection process, BGP offers more flexibility and control over routing decisions.

Convergence

Another important attribute to consider when comparing BGP and EIGRP is convergence. Convergence refers to the time it takes for a routing protocol to update its routing tables in response to network changes. BGP has a slower convergence time compared to EIGRP. This is because BGP relies on the exchange of full routing tables between peers, which can take longer to propagate changes throughout the network. In contrast, EIGRP uses a more efficient algorithm that allows for faster convergence, making it more suitable for networks that require quick response times to network changes.

Path Selection

When it comes to path selection, BGP and EIGRP have different mechanisms for determining the best path for routing packets. BGP uses a policy-based routing approach, where administrators can define routing policies based on factors such as AS path length, route preference, and network attributes. This allows for more granular control over routing decisions in BGP. On the other hand, EIGRP uses a metric-based approach, where the best path is determined based on a composite metric that takes into account factors such as bandwidth, delay, reliability, and load. While EIGRP provides a simpler path selection process, BGP offers more flexibility and control over routing decisions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BGP and EIGRP are two distinct routing protocols with unique attributes and functionalities. BGP is more scalable and offers greater flexibility in routing policies, making it suitable for large-scale networks with complex routing requirements. On the other hand, EIGRP is more efficient in terms of convergence and provides a simpler path selection process, making it ideal for smaller networks with less complexity. Ultimately, the choice between BGP and EIGRP will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the network in question.