What is a primary function of OSPF hello packets?

The primary function of OSPF hello packets is to discover neighbors and build adjacencies. When OSPF is operational on a router, it sends hello packets at regular intervals to identify other OSPF routers on the same link or network segment. These hello packets contain important information that allows the router to establish and maintain relationships, known as neighbor adjacencies, with other OSPF routers.

This process is essential because it enables routers to share their routing information in an efficient manner. By forming adjacencies, routers can synchronize their link-state databases and ensure that they have a consistent view of the network topology. Additionally, hello packets carry configuration information, such as the hello interval and dead interval, which helps routers to determine how to communicate with each other effectively.

The other choices describe functions or characteristics related to OSPF, but they do not represent the primary purpose of hello packets in the OSPF protocol. For instance, while hello packets play a critical role in the initial phase of adjacency establishment, the verification of network topology, sending link-state updates, and updating routing tables occur later in the OSPF process once adjacencies have been established.