Network Addressing and Routing

Correct Answer: To determine the best path for network traffic to take

The primary purpose of a routing protocol is to determine the best path for network traffic to travel from one network to another. This is why the first answer is correct. The other answers, while they do pertain to networking, do not accurately describe the function of a routing protocol. Connecting two networks together is generally the function of a router, not the protocol itself. Providing encryption for network communication is not the purpose of a routing protocol, but a function of a security protocol such as IPsec or SSL. Converting IP addresses to MAC addresses is a function of the Address Resolution Protocol (ARP), not a routing protocol.

Correct Answer: To send packets with a destination IP address outside the local network to a default gateway

The purpose of a default route is to direct packets with a destination IP address outside the local network to a default gateway. This is because there is no specific route defined in the routing table for the destination network. The other options provided are incorrect. Directing packets to a specific host on the local network is the task of specific routes, not the default route. Ensuring data integrity by verifying packet delivery is a feature of protocols such as TCP, but it is not the purpose of a default route. Likewise, prioritizing network traffic based on QoS (Quality of Service) policies is usually handled by specific network devices and protocols, and not the purpose of a default route.

Correct Answer: To assign IP addresses dynamically to hosts on a network

DHCP, or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, is specifically designed to assign IP addresses dynamically to hosts on a network. It does this automatically, meaning network administrators don't have to manually assign addresses. This significantly simplifies network management. The second answer suggesting DHCP is used to translate domain names to IP addresses is incorrect, because that is the function of DNS (Domain Name System). DHCP does not provide secure remote access to a network either, that's a function typically performed by a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or similar technology. Nor does it monitor network traffic for intrusion attempts. That's typically a function of a IDS (Intrusion Detection System) or similar security system.