What is a characteristic of static routes?

Static routes are characterized by having a fixed path. This means that once a static route is configured, it does not change unless manually modified by an administrator. It specifies a particular next-hop IP address or exit interface to reach a specific destination network. Unlike dynamic routes, which can adjust and reroute based on network conditions and updates to the network topology, a static route relies on the predefined path set during its configuration. This characteristic makes static routes stable and predictable, providing a consistent routing path when the network configuration does not frequently change.

The other options describe features of dynamic routing protocols or the need for active management, which do not apply to static routes. For instance, static routes are not designed to adapt to network changes, nor do they require frequent updates, making them simple and reliable for certain types of network setups. Manual configuration is a necessity for static routes, contrasting with the automation found in dynamic routes.