What interface? If it is serial, did you set a clock rate on the DCE end? You don't need and routing protocol for directly connected interfaces. If line protocol is up (layer 2), then look at layer 3 (IP addresses). If they are connected via ethernet, you need a crossover. If they are connected via serial, you still need a crossover, but a DB-60 to DB-60, DTE/DCE.
Burt