 In a naive distance vector protocol, such as the routing information protocol, the loop will persist until the metrics for C reach "infinity" (the maximum number of routers that a packet can traverse in RIP is 15.The value 16 is considered infinity and the packet is discarded).In a link-state routing protocol, such as OSPF or IS-IS, a routing loop disappears as soon as the new network topology is flooded to all the routers within the routing area.