OSPF adjacencies without DR/BDR elections With which OSPF network type do routers form adjacencies but do not run a DR/BDR election process?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Point-to-point

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
OSPF behavior varies with the underlying network type. DR/BDR elections occur on multiaccess networks to reduce adjacency overhead. On links that inherently have only two endpoints, there is no need for a DR/BDR, yet full adjacencies still form. Recognizing these differences aids design and troubleshooting.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Network types considered: point-to-point, broadcast multi-access, NBMA.
  • Adjacency formation is required in all OSPF network types.
  • The question asks specifically where DR/BDR is not elected.


Concept / Approach:
DR/BDR election is only needed when more than two routers share a segment, as on Ethernet (broadcast) or Frame Relay (NBMA). On point-to-point links (for example, serial PPP links or point-to-point subinterfaces), only two routers exist; therefore, OSPF forms a full adjacency without any DR/BDR roles.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Classify network type: point-to-point means two routers only.Apply OSPF rule: DR/BDR elections occur only on multiaccess segments.Conclude: point-to-point links have no DR/BDR election but do form full adjacencies.


Verification / Alternative check:
Command show ip ospf interface on a serial PPP link reports “Network Type POINT_TO_POINT, No designated router on this network,” confirming the behavior.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • B: Area 0 is a logical construct; DR/BDR depends on network type, not area number.
  • C/D: Both are multiaccess and do run DR/BDR elections.
  • E: Virtual links traverse areas but do not change the underlying network-type rules.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming all Ethernet links are point-to-point; Ethernet is broadcast multi-access in OSPF, and elections occur.


Final Answer:
Point-to-point

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