What does OSPF stand for?

The correct answer, Open Shortest Path First, refers to a widely used link-state routing protocol that operates within a single autonomous system. OSPF is designed to optimize routing efficiency and manage dynamic routing tables within IP networks. It leverages the Dijkstra algorithm to calculate the shortest path to each node based on a cost metric that typically takes into account the bandwidth of links.

This protocol is characterized by its capability to quickly converge and its use of hierarchical network design principles, which allow for scalable deployment in large networks. OSPF supports Type of Service (ToS) routing and includes features like multicast updates and area aggregation, which enhance its performance and scalability. It is also an open standard, ensuring compatibility across different vendor equipment.

In contrast, terms like "Open Standard Path First," "Optimal Shortest Path First," and "Ordered Shortest Path First" do not represent any established routing protocols or recognized definitions within networking.