How to Configure EIGRP Bandwidth

EIGRP Bandwidth for IPv4

EIGRP utilizes 50 % of an interface’s bandwidth for EIGRP information by default. Utilizing a half interface bandwidth not allowing enough bandwidth for the routing of normal traffic and prevents the EIGRP process from over-utilizing a link.

We can change to default bandwidth utilization ratio using the command “ip bandwidth-percent eigrp”. This is an interface mode command which changes the percentage of bandwidth that can be used by EIGRP on an interface. The command syntax for changing the interface bandwidth is:

Router(config-if)# ip bandwidth-percent eigrpas-number percent

EIGRP Bandwidth

This command is useful, where the link speed is slow. If the link speed is slow then we can configure the bandwidth utilization for EIGRP. Figure 1 illustrates the link between R1 and R2 share a slow 128 kb/s link. So we required to configure the bandwidth usage limitation for EIGRP. The configuration for bandwidth limitation for EIGRP between the R1 and R2 is the following:

Router R1

R1(config)# interface gigabitEthernet 0/0

R1(config-if)#ip bandwidth-percent eigrp 100 25

Router R2

R2(config)# interface gigabitEthernet 0/0

R2(config-if)#ip bandwidth-percent eigrp 100 25

In the above example, EIGRP is limited to use up to 25 percent of the link’s bandwidth. So, EIGRP never uses more the 32 kb/s of the link’s bandwidth for EIGRP packet traffic. We can restore the default value, using thenoform of the “ip bandwidth-percent” command.

EIGRP Bandwidth for IPv6

We can also configure the EIGRP for IPv6 bandwidth limitation also. Theipv6 bandwidth-percent eigrp as-number percent” command can be used to configure the limitation for IPv6 EIGRP. The command should be used similarly in the interface configuration mode. We can restore the default value, using thenoform of this command.

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Asad Ijaz

NetworkUstad's lead networking architect with CCIE certification. Specializes in CCNA exam preparation and enterprise network design. Authored 2,800+ technical guides on Cisco systems, BGP routing, and network security protocols since 2018. Picture this: I'm not just someone who writes about tech; I'm a certified expert in the field. I proudly hold the titles of Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). So, when I talk about networking, I'm not just whistling in the dark; I know my stuff! My website is like a treasure trove of knowledge. You'll find a plethora of articles and tutorials covering a wide range of topics related to networking and cybersecurity. It's not just a website; it's a learning hub for anyone who's eager to dive into the world of bits, bytes, and secure connections. And here's a fun fact: I'm not a lone wolf in this journey. I'm a proud member and Editor of Team NetworkUstad. Together, we're on a mission to empower people with the knowledge they need to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. So, if you're ready to embark on a tech-savvy adventure, stick around with me, Asad Ijaz Khattak. We're going to unravel the mysteries of technology, one article at a time!"