Question

If routers are stuck in the "Loading" state in OSPF, what could be the problem?

a) Mismatched OSPF versions
b) MTU mismatch
c) Authentication failure
d) Hello timer mismatch
e) IP address mismatch

Answer 1

The most likely problem is a mismatched OSPF version. Misconfigured hello timers and authentication failures can also cause routers to get stuck in the "Loading" state.Thus, the correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely problem if routers are stuck in the "Loading" state in OSPF is a mismatched OSPF version. OSPF routers must have the same OSPF version to establish neighbor relationships and exchange routing information. If the routers have different OSPF versions, they will not be able to communicate properly.

Misconfigured hello timers can also cause routers to be stuck in the "Loading" state. The hello timer specifies how often OSPF routers send hello packets to each other. If the hello timer is set too high or too low on the routers, they may not be able to establish neighbor relationships.

Authentication failure is another possible cause. OSPF routers can be configured to use authentication to ensure that only trusted routers participate in the OSPF network. If there is an authentication failure between routers, they will not be able to establish neighbor relationships.

Therefore, the correct option is A) Mismatched OSPF versions

Answer 2

Routers stuck in the "Loading" state in OSPF may indicate a Hello timer mismatch, where routers have inconsistent timing for sending OSPF Hello packets, disrupting the neighborship formation. Ensuring synchronized Hello timers resolves this issue. Option D is correct

Step-by-step explanation:

Routers stuck in the "Loading" state in OSPF typically suggest a Hello timer mismatch, making option (d) the likely cause. In OSPF, routers exchange Hello packets to establish and maintain neighborship. If routers have disparate Hello timers, they may struggle to synchronize their states, leading to the "Loading" state. This mismatch can arise from misconfigurations or disruptions in the network.

To address this issue, network administrators should verify and align the Hello timer settings on all routers participating in OSPF. Consistent Hello timers ensure timely communication between routers, facilitating the formation of OSPF adjacencies and preventing routers from getting stuck in the "Loading" state. Regular monitoring and maintenance of OSPF configurations help maintain a stable and efficient routing environment. So option D is correct.