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Routing & Switching · Advanced

OSPF Virtual Link

A logical link through a transit area that connects a remote area or partitioned backbone to area 0.

Definition

Virtual links are configured between ABRs using router IDs and belong to area 0. The transit area must be a normal area (not stub). They are a temporary or migration fix; GRE tunnels or redesign are preferred long term.

Example

area 1 virtual-link 3.3.3.3 on both ends

Exam tip

Virtual links reference router IDs, not interface IPs, and cannot transit a stub area.

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