Which routing protocol does the PIM Candidate RP functionality belong to?

The PIM Candidate RP functionality is associated with Protocol Independent Multicast (PIM). This feature is used in PIM to identify potential Rendezvous Points (RPs) for multicast groups. In multicast routing, RPs play a crucial role by acting as a common meeting point for the multicast sources and receivers within a given network. The Candidate RP feature enables a router to advertise itself as a potential RP so that multicast sources can register with it.

Unlike the other routing protocols listed, which are designed for unicast routing, PIM is specifically focused on multicast traffic management. It operates independently of underlying unicast routing protocols, which is why it's referred to as "Protocol Independent." This aspect reinforces the functionality of PIM in establishing efficient multicast distribution trees, thereby enhancing the overall multicast capability within the network.