rerouting

Rerouting refers to the process of directing traffic along an alternative path from the originally intended route. It is employed across multiple domains, including data communications, transportation, and logistics, to adapt to changing conditions such as failures, congestion, or planned network changes.

In data networks, rerouting is the act of updating routes so that packets travel a different path. Dynamic routing protocols recompute routes when topology or link metrics change. Automatic rerouting aims to preserve connectivity and performance, sometimes using backup paths or precomputed failover routes. Convergence time, routing loops, and policy conflicts are common concerns. Protocols like OSPF and BGP influence path selection by exchanging topology or policy information.

In road and air transportation, rerouting involves directing travelers along alternate paths in response to incidents, construction, weather, or traffic management strategies. Tools for rerouting include traffic control centers, electronic message signs, and consumer navigation apps. While rerouting can reduce overall delays and improve safety, it can also shift congestion to other areas and affect travelers’ schedules.

In logistics, rerouting adjusts delivery or distribution sequences to meet service levels, balance load, or cope with disruptions such as vehicle breakdowns or demand changes. Techniques include dynamic routing, capacity-aware scheduling, and hub-and-spoke reallocation. Rerouting can lower costs and improve reliability but may increase complexity and risk of delays if planning is imperfect.

Key considerations include reliability, transparency to users, data quality, and the risk of instability from frequent changes. Effective rerouting relies on timely information, clear policies, and safeguards against route flapping and unintended consequences.