Which protocol is generally preferred for larger and more complex networks?

Link State protocols are preferred for larger and more complex networks because they provide greater scalability, faster convergence, and more efficient use of network resources compared to other routing methods.

In Link State routing protocols, each router independently maps the entire topology of the network. Each router sends out updates about its directly connected neighbors and their link states, allowing all routers to build a complete and consistent view of the network. This enables them to make more informed routing decisions based on the overall network state, rather than just the information received from immediate neighbors.

This method leads to faster convergence, as routers can quickly learn about changes in the network. When a change occurs, only the affected router broadcasts its updated state instead of sending complete routing tables, as distance vector protocols do. This reduces bandwidth consumption and keeps routing tables smaller, which is critical in larger networks where bandwidth and resource optimization are essential.

In contrast, distance vector protocols, like Routing Information Protocol (RIP), rely on periodic updates and can suffer from slower convergence and routing loops. Static routing is not dynamic and can be impractical in large networks, as manual updates are required when changes occur. Therefore, Link State protocols are generally the go-to choice for larger and more complex network environments.