Which router component holds the routing table, ARP cache, and running configuration file?NVRAMRAMFlashROM

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the components of a router mentioned in the question: routing table, ARP cache, and running configuration file.
2. Determine where each of these components is stored in a router.

Relevant Concepts

3. Understand the function of each memory type:
   • NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory): Stores the startup configuration file.
   • RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporarily holds the running configuration and actively operating processes, including the routing table and ARP cache.
   • Flash Memory: Used for storing the router's operating system and other firmware.
   • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Contains essential startup instructions, primarily for booting the router.

Analysis and Detail

4. The routing table and ARP cache are both dynamic data structures that need to be updated frequently as network states change. Therefore, they are stored in RAM, which provides quick read and write access. The running configuration file is also stored in RAM while the router operates because it can change during operation.

Verify and Summarize

5. The router holds the routing table, ARP cache, and running configuration file in its RAM. The other types of memory (NVRAM, Flash, ROM) serve different purposes and do not hold these components.

Final Answer

The routing table, ARP cache, and running configuration file are held in RAM.