Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) Practice Exam

Universal load-sharing algorithms in Cisco Express Forwarding (CEF) utilize a hash function that incorporates unique identifiers, allowing for effective distribution of traffic across multiple paths. This uniqueness ensures that each flow of traffic can be designated to a specific path, thus optimizing load balancing and network performance.

The integration of unique identifiers into the hashing process plays a crucial role in managing how incoming packets are processed and sent through different available routes. This reduces the likelihood of packet misordering, which can occur when duplicate hashes lead to ambiguous routing decisions.

In contrast, characteristics like duplicating hashes or the general use of tunnels do not capture the essential functionality and benefits of universal load-sharing algorithms. While layer 4 information may enhance decision-making for some routing configurations, the defining feature of this algorithm is its reliance on unique identifiers in the hashing process to maintain efficient and balanced data flow through the network.