Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)

Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a routing protocol used by computers within the same network to find the most efficient path for data to travel. Think of it as a digital GPS for network devices, where each device shares information about the network's layout. OSPF calculates the shortest and quickest routes based on this shared data, ensuring that information reaches its destination reliably and efficiently. It's widely used in large networks because it adapts quickly to changes, maintaining optimal data flow without manual reconfiguration.