When multiple routing protocols suggest paths to the same destination, the router picks based on administrative distance. Lower values win.
Default administrative distances:
- Connected:
- Static:
- EIGRP:
- OSPF:
- RIP:
If OSPF and RIP both advertise a route to , OSPF wins because . You can change these defaults, but the hierarchy matters for troubleshooting. If traffic takes an unexpected path, check administrative distances first.