Simple definition
Routing Information Protocol is a distance-vector routing protocol using hop count as its metric, with a maximum usable distance of 15 hops.
Purpose and use
RIP, Routing Information Protocol, is a distance-vector protocol that selects routes using hop count.
How does it work?
RIPv2 for IPv4 exchanges information over UDP 520. Metric 16 means unreachable, limiting usable paths to 15 hops.
Example and verification
For a missing route, check the exchanged version, advertised networks, filters and metric after redistribution.
Points to watch
Hop count does not represent bandwidth or latency. Convergence behavior and limited diameter make RIP unsuitable for many large modern domains.
In short
RIP provides simple distance-based selection; weigh that simplicity against convergence and policy requirements.