Example Concept: BGP path selection is a multi-step process where the protocol evaluates paths based on several attributes in a specific order. Initially, BGP considers the highest weight (a Cisco-specific attribute) and local preference, which are often manually configured to influence routing decisions. If these are equal, BGP examines the shortest AS-path, preferring paths with fewer autonomous systems. Further tie-breaking involves checking the origin type, MED, eBGP over iBGP paths, and the lowest IGP metric to the BGP next hop. Finally, BGP may use router ID or cluster list length for final decisions.