Routing

Static Routes

Learn how static routes specify forwarding choices, how routers use them, and how route availability and administrative distance affect routing decisions.

Intermediate12 min read
Routing lessonNetworkingPractice

UNTIMED COACHING

Practice before the pressure

Use feedback to correct the model, not merely memorize an option position.

GUIDED PRACTICE

Practice the lesson questions

Answer normal lesson questions without a timer. Every answer includes an explanation, and incorrect answers can be tried again before continuing.

CONCEPT MODELS

See the lesson as a system

Use these visual guides to connect the key ideas before answering the questions.

Static Route RelationshipA static route links a destination prefix to a selected next hop, then supports forwarding while its path remains usable.
Static Route RelationshipFlow from packet destination through routing table to next-hop router and onward destination network.
PacketCarries a destination address
Destination prefixIdentifies the intended network
Routing tableStores possible forwarding paths
Next-hop routerReceives the packet next
Route LifecycleA static route stays usable while its forwarding path works; a failed interface or invalid next hop removes it from the active table.
Route LifecyclePartition showing route configuration, usable path, active table, and removal after path failure.
Route configurationStores destination and next hop
Forwarding pathProvides a usable neighbor
Active routeAppears in routing table
Path failureInvalidates forwarding access
Route Source PreferenceAdministrative distance compares the trustworthiness of competing routing information; source preference depends on assigned values rather than manual entry alone.
Route Source PreferenceComparison between manually entered and dynamically learned route information using administrative distance.
Static sourceEntered by an administrator
Dynamic sourceLearned through exchanged data
Administrative distanceCompares source trustworthiness
Selected routeProvides preferred forwarding