What Does Metric Mean in 200-301?
Quick Definition
The value a routing protocol uses to measure the desirability of a route to the same destination.
Full Definition
Within a single routing protocol, the metric determines which route is best when multiple paths exist to the same destination. Different protocols use different metrics: OSPF uses cost (based on bandwidth), RIP uses hop count, EIGRP uses a composite metric (bandwidth + delay by default). The route with the lowest metric wins and is installed in the routing table. If multiple routes have equal metrics, all are installed (equal-cost load balancing).
Exam Trap — Don't Get Fooled
Metric and Administrative Distance are different. AD chooses between routing sources (OSPF vs static). Metric chooses between routes within the same routing source (two OSPF paths). Do not confuse them.
Related 200-301 Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Metric mean on the 200-301 exam?
Within a single routing protocol, the metric determines which route is best when multiple paths exist to the same destination. Different protocols use different metrics: OSPF uses cost (based on bandwidth), RIP uses hop count, EIGRP uses a composite metric (bandwidth + delay by default). The route with the lowest metric wins and is installed in the routing table. If multiple routes have equal metrics, all are installed (equal-cost load balancing).
How does Metric appear as a trap on the 200-301?
Metric and Administrative Distance are different. AD chooses between routing sources (OSPF vs static). Metric chooses between routes within the same routing source (two OSPF paths). Do not confuse them.
How important is Metric on the 200-301 exam?
Metric falls under the Routing domain of the 200-301 exam. Understanding it in context with related terms like administrative-distance and ospf is essential for answering scenario-based questions correctly.