What is an advantage of using OSPF over RIP?

Using OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) provides the significant advantage of supporting larger networks with faster convergence compared to RIP (Routing Information Protocol). OSPF is designed to operate efficiently in larger, more complex networks, as it employs a link-state routing algorithm. This method allows routers to share their entire view of the network topology, leading to quicker updates and decisions regarding route selection.

The faster convergence offered by OSPF is achieved through its use of hierarchical design with areas and by using the Dijkstra algorithm to compute the shortest path tree. When there is a change in the network, OSPF can quickly recalculate the routes and propagate updates to other routers, thus minimizing downtime and maintaining network stability.

In contrast, RIP operates using a distance-vector routing protocol, which can suffer from slower convergence times, especially in larger networks. Its maximum hop count of 15 also limits its scalability, making it less suitable for expansive networks. This difference in capabilities underscores why OSPF is often favored in environments where robustness and speed of updates are critical.

The correct answer reflects OSPF's capacity to handle larger networks and achieve rapid convergence, which is an essential consideration for network design and performance in routing protocols.