The explicit path
A route is a decision attached to a destination.
A router compares a packet's destination IP (Internet Protocol) address with its routing table. A static route adds one deliberate entry: a destination prefix and the next step used to reach it.
Static routes are useful for small, stable topologies, special paths, or a default route. They become harder to maintain when networks change frequently or grow large.
Build the model
Four route ingredients
Destination prefix
The network range the route should match.
Next hop
The neighboring router that receives the next packet.
Interface
The local connection used to send the packet onward.
Default route
A broad last-resort route used when no more specific entry matches.
Mini experiment
Build a route
Select a destination range and compare a specific route with the default route.
The specific route is preferred when it matches the destination.
Knowledge check
Test your static route model
Answer five questions. The answer order changes each time.