If the next hop gateway is unspecified, what does the network probe policy assume?

In the context of network probe policies, when the next hop gateway is unspecified, the assumption made is that the targets are directly connected to the outbound interface's network. This implies that there is no need for routing through another gateway because the devices or targets are assumed to be on the same local network as the interface being used to send the probes.

The network probe policy is designed to streamline the monitoring and communication process within a specified network. If the system identifies that a next hop gateway is not defined, it will infer that all communications can occur within the local network segment. This understanding simplifies the probing process, eliminating potential complications that could arise from routing data packets through a gateway that has not been specified. By conducting probes directly on the local network, the policies can ensure an efficient and immediate response from the targets being monitored.