| This chapter covers the following topics, which you need to understand to pass the CCNP/CCDP/CCIP BSCI exam: The topics in this chapter detail the routing protocol OSPF. This chapter assumes knowledge of the previous chapter, which dealt conceptually with link-state routing protocols. This chapter covers the essence of OSPF. It introduces OSPF by considering the protocol in its simplest form, within a single area. The basic operations of the protocol are explained in this chapter. Chapter 7, "Configuring OSPF in a Single Area," builds on this chapter and explains how to configure, verify, and troubleshoot OSPF. Chapter 8, "Using OSPF Across Multiple Areas," and Chapter 9, "Configuring OSPF Across Multiple Areas," build further on this understanding and explain how OSPF works within a large multiarea network. The topics in this chapter directly reflect questions on the exam. OSPF is the industry-standard interior routing protocol designed for use in large networks. Therefore, it is an obligatory subject in an exam on IP routing protocols. The following chapter assumes your comprehension of the subjects covered within this chapter. | 