OSPF Virtual Link Downloads OSPF Virtual Link Document ID: 47866 Contents Introduction Prerequisites Requirements Components Used Conventions Configure Network Diagram Configurations How the Virtual Link Operates Calculate the Shortest Path Using a GRE Tunnel Instead of a Virtual Link Verify Examine the OSPF Database Troubleshoot Troubleshoot Commands NetPro Discussion Forums - Featured Conversations Related Information Introduction All areas in an Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) autonomous system must be physically connected to the backbone area (Area 0). In some cases, where this is not possible, you can use a virtual link to connect to the backbone through a non-backbone area. You can also use virtual links to connect two parts of a parti...