RFC 1923 (rfc1923) - Page 1 of 3

RIPv1 Applicability Statement for Historic Status

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Network Working Group                                         J. Halpern
Request for Comments: 1923                            Newbridge Networks
Category: Informational                                       S. Bradner
                                                      Harvard University
                                                              March 1996


           RIPv1 Applicability Statement for Historic Status

Status of this Memo

   This memo provides information for the Internet community.  This memo
   does not specify an Internet standard of any kind.  Distribution of
   this memo is unlimited.

Abstract

   RIP Version 1 [RFC-1058] has been declared an historic document.
   This Applicability statement provides the supporting motivation for
   that declaration.  The primary reason, as described below, is the
   Classful nature of RIPv1.

1.0 Introduction

   RIP version 1 (RIPv1) (as defined by RFC 1058) was one of the first
   dynamic routing protocols used in the internet.  It was developed as
   a technique for passing around network reachability information for
   what we now consider relatively simple topologies.

   The Internet has changed significantly since RIPv1 was defined,
   particularly with the introduction and use of subnets and CIDR.

   While RIPv1 is widely used in private networks, it can no longer be
   considered applicable for use in the global Internet.

2.0 RIPv1 restrictions

   RIPv1 has a number of restrictions and behaviors which restrict its
   useability in the global Internet.

2.1 Classfulness

   Chief among these is that it is a classful routing protocol.  RIP
   packets do not carry prefix masks.  The prefix length is inferred
   from the address.  For non-local addresses, the prefix is always the
   "natural" (classful) length. (e.g., 24 bits for a "Class C" network
   address.)  For networks to which a local interface exists, if the
   interface is subnetted with some specific mask, then RIPv1 assumes



Halpern & Bradner            Informational
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