Client based routing
Calculating an optimal route is a difficult task. While the client device app has a routing algorithm included, this is not used unless there is no connection to the Waze server.
Speculation
The routing algorithm used by the Waze server is not publicly disclosed and the following is based on observation, speculation, and some information revealed by Waze staff. We can assume that the operating of the routing server is considered to be proprietary and a competitive advantage to Waze. We can also assume that it is subject to change, and that any information that has been revealed may be incomplete out out of date.
Routing requests
When you request a route calculation, the request is sent to the Waze server. That route is then transmitted back to your client device and displayed.
The requests for routing vary according to the settings you have chosen on your client device. Under Routing you can choose:
- Fastest or shortest route
- Whether to allow dirt roads, never allow dirt roads or to avoid long dirt roads
- Whether to minimize turns
- Whether to avoid highways
- Whether to prefer cookie munching
The shortest route refers to physical distance. It is always better to choose the Fastest route option. 100km of freeway is better than 90km of country roads.
Cookie munching refers to [[glossary|pacman] or unconfirmed roads. When this option is enabled, the route will take a less direct route to travel over unconfirmed roads, earning you points. This typically adds 10 minutes to your driving time. So a 3 hour drive becomes 3 hours and 10 minutes. But a 20 minute drive becomes 30 minute drive.