What is typically a downside of using static routes?

Using static routes does have limitations concerning scalability, making this the correct choice. Static routes require manually configuring each route, which can become increasingly cumbersome as the network grows. In larger networks, the number of static routes can become difficult to manage effectively, leading to a higher risk of human error and inconsistencies in routing.

As the network expands, the need to keep all routes updated also increases. Any changes in the network, such as the addition of new segments or changes in the topology, necessitate manual adjustments to the static routes. This lack of dynamic adjustment makes static routing less adaptable compared to dynamic routing protocols, which automatically learn and adjust routes.

While static routing does have its benefits—such as being simpler to understand in small, stable networks and providing complete control over routing decisions—the limits to its scalability become apparent in larger, more complex environments. This fundamental challenge is what makes scalability a notable downside of using static routes.