Which routing protocol is classified as a path vector protocol?

The classification of Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) as a path vector protocol is based on its method of maintaining path information that gets updated dynamically as networks change. In BGP, each route advertisement contains a list of autonomous systems (AS) that the route has traversed, providing a complete path for routing decisions. This allows BGP to make intelligent routing decisions based on policies and routing attributes, helping to avoid routing loops and providing better control over how data is routed through the internet.

Path vector protocols like BGP use this method of maintaining a complete path information, which distinguishes them from other types of routing protocols. This capability is particularly important in the context of the internet, where paths may cross multiple administrative domains, and policies can vary significantly from one domain to another.

In contrast, the other options represent different types of routing protocols. Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) is a hybrid routing protocol combining features of both distance vector and link-state protocols. Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a link-state protocol that uses a different mechanism of sharing routing information than path vectors. Distance vector protocols, in general, rely on the distance to the destination and the direction (vector) to reach it, rather than maintaining a complete path