Traceroute

Traceroute shows the hop-by-hop path packets take to reach a destination.

Updated: 2026-03-05

Definition

Traceroute discovers the path to a destination by sending packets with increasing TTL values.

Routers return ICMP time-exceeded messages, revealing intermediate hops.

Key points

Helps locate routing issues
Uses TTL-based probing
Different OS use different probe methods

Common mistakes

Assuming a blocked hop means the path is broken (ICMP may be filtered).
Ignoring asymmetric routing paths.

Related exams

CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)

Free Network+ N10-009 mini test. Continue in the app for offline packs and detailed explanations.

Cisco CCNA (200-301)

Free CCNA 200-301 mini test. Continue in the app for offline packs and detailed explanations.

Related terms

Want to practice this in exam-style questions?

Use the mini tests on each exam page, then continue in the app for offline packs and detailed explanations.