A routing (switching) method which can automatically adapt to changes in the transmission facilities available within a network. This type of routing may, in a simple form, only accommodate failed lines or failed switching nodes. In a more complex form varying traffic loads may also be accommodated.

Routing that automatically adjusts to network changes such as traffic pattern changes or failures.

Feature of DECnet-Plus routing in which the intermediate system dynamically determines the most cost-effective path currently available, forwards messages through the network along this path, and automatically reroutes messages if a circuit becomes disabled. The path, or choice, depends on the current information stored in the routing database, which is updated regularly.