In IP routing, what is the difference between 'Next-hop' and 'Exit interface'?

Question

In IP routing, what is the difference between 'Next-hop' and 'Exit interface'?

Answer 1

Since we're talking about IP routing, "exit interface" has a very specific meaning.



So here's a quick "high level" description of what happens...



1) packet arrives on an interface (the "ingress interface")

2) router checks it for errors

3) router consults the routing table and decides where it should go next (the "next hop")

4) router figures out which interface is connected to the next hop (the "exit interface" or more technically correct: the "egress interface")

5) router sends the data out that interface.

Answer 2

Next hop is the address or interface that it will go to after it leaves yours.Exit interface is the one it leaves from.



No no, above is incorrect. If you're in the config mode of a router and you leave the interface mode then yes "Exit Interface" makes sense, but if you're talking about routing I believe you're talking about the "outgoing interface."



Oh man, below isn't "fully" correct. While the E0 interface could be the "exit interface" it could also be one of the others.

Answer 3

Next hop means that next router which is routing the data towards your desired server or web site and exit interface is to shut down the interface like lan vlan or wan interface.

Answer 4

Next hop = next router

exit interface = ethernet0 going to a Lan connection