Specify Connector Cost

The cost associated with each connector is used to optimize message routing but does not cause non-delivery of mail. Messages are routed according to lowest cost, but message are never returned because of the cost. If two or more routes are available with the same cost, the load is distributed as equally as possible between them. Routing cost values range from 1 to 100.

To specify the connector cost:

1. Start System Manager
   On the Start menu, point to Programs, point to Microsoft Exchange, and then click System Manager.
2. Navigate to Connectors.

   System Manager

   1. Administrative Groups
   2. Administrative Group
   3. Routing Groups
   4. Routing Group
   5. Connectors
3. Right-click a connector, and then click Properties.
4. For SMTP and X.400 connectors, click the Address Space or Connected Routing Groups tab. If you select Connected Routing Groups, click New or Modify. On the Routing Address tab of the Properties dialog that appears, type a value in Cost. If you select Address Space, click Add and then select an address type, or click Modify. On the General tab of the Properties dialog that appears, type a value in Cost.