# OSPF Virtual Link Settings

All areas in an OSPF network must connect directly to the backbone area. You can connect routing segments that cannot reach the backbone router using a connection called a virtual link. A virtual link provides a remote area with a logical path to the backbone through another area. After you create a virtual link, you can configure certain parameters for it.

### To Configure Virtual Link Parameters

1. Enter the necessary information:

Authentication: Select one of the following authentication methods:

None: Select this check box to disable authentication.

Password: Select this check box to configure a clear-text password as the authentication method. Enter the password in the Password field.

MD5: Select this check box to enable MD5 authentication. Enter the MD5 Key and MD5 Key ID.

Router Dead Interval: Specify the maximum amount of time that elapses before OSPF determines its neighbor is not running.

Hello Interval: Specify the amount of time between transmissions of Hello packets.

Retransmit Interval: Specify the amount of time that elapses between LSAretransmissions.

Transmit Delay: Specify the amount of time between transmissions of link-state update packets.

2. Click OK to save your changes and return to the Virtual Links page. Click Apply to continue configuring the virtual link.