Routing Protocols: The Red Team’s Map to Network Dominance

In the vast, interconnected world of networks, routers act as the highways, directing data packets to their destinations. Routing protocols, in turn, are the maps that ensure these highways are utilized efficiently. But for a red teamer — an ethical hacker simulating attacks — these maps are more than just logistical aids. They’re opportunities, pathways to exploit vulnerabilities, and avenues to infiltrate and dominate a network.

This blog unpacks routing protocols, their types, and how red teamers use them to navigate and exploit networks. Whether you’re a budding cybersecurity enthusiast or an experienced professional, this journey into the world of routing protocols will enhance your understanding of how networks function and how attackers operate within them.

What Are Routing Protocols?

Routing protocols are rules and procedures that routers use to communicate with each other. They determine the best path for forwarding packets across a network. The protocols are crucial for maintaining efficient, reliable, and scalable communication between devices.

Some of the primary functions of routing protocols include:

• Learning and maintaining knowledge of available routes.
• Determining the optimal path for…