In networking, what does the term "stub" usually refer to?

In the context of networking, the term "stub" refers specifically to a network that is minimal and typically consists of a single connection to another network, such as a main backbone or core. A stub network does not have any routes leading to other networks; it relies solely on one exit point for traffic. The defining characteristic of a stub network is its simplicity and singular route, which distinguishes it from more complex network configurations that may have multiple routes or connections.

Understanding stub networks is important in routing protocols, as they can affect how routing information is propagated and managed within larger networks. In contrast, a fully connected network would have multiple nodes interconnected, providing various pathways for data to travel, which is fundamentally different from the isolated nature of a stub network. A backup route does not describe the functionality of a stub, as stubs serve as primary rather than redundant pathways. Similarly, while dynamic routing policies involve automated updates of routes and can be applied to stubs, they do not define a stub network itself.