Routing Algorithms - Computer Networks
UNIT 4 Network Layer - Design Issues - Routing Algorithms – Congestion Control Algorithms – IP Protocol – IP Addresses – Internet Control Protocols. Why do we study Network Layer Design Issues ? We study network layer design issues because the network layer is responsible for end-to-end delivery of data across multiple networks , not just a single link. 1. It enables end-to-end communication 🌍 Unlike the data link layer (which only moves frames over one physical link ), the network layer ensures that a packet: Starts at the source host Travels through multiple routers Reaches the final destination host Without proper network layer design, large networks like the Internet simply cannot function. 2. It decides how packets travel (Routing & Path Selection) 🧭 The network layer must: Understand the network topology (routers + links) Choose the best path among many possible routes Adapt when links fail or congest...