ECMP (Equal-Cost Multi-Path)

ECMP uses multiple equal-cost routes for load balancing and redundancy.

Updated: 2026-03-05

Definition

ECMP allows a router to install multiple routes with the same metric to a destination.

Traffic is load-balanced across paths using hashing (per-flow in many cases).

Key points

Multiple equal-cost next hops
Load sharing via hashing
Improves redundancy and utilization

Common mistakes

Expecting per-packet balancing without understanding platform behavior.
Unequal links still treated as equal, causing congestion.

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