OSPF, or Open Shortest Path First, is a widely used routing protocol in computer networks. It helps routers communicate with each other to determine the best path for data to travel across the network. OSPF is classified as a link-state protocol, meaning it maintains a map of the network's topology and uses this information to make routing decisions. OSPF operates within an autonomous system and is designed to be efficient and scalable. It uses a hierarchical structure with areas to optimize routing and reduce overhead. This makes OSPF suitable for large networks, allowing for faster convergence and improved performance compared to other routing protocols.