Packets DownRange
Interconnection, peering, Data centers. How the Internet works. IXPs, transit, and other topics. Routing and Control Planes such as BGP and OSPF protocols. RPKI and IP resources are also covered.
A data center fabric connects servers, storage, and network devices using a leaf-spine architecture designed for high bandwidth and predictable latency. Learn how packets move through a fabric, why ECMP matters, and how modern data centers support virtualization, cloud, and AI workloads.
AI agents change network traffic patterns completely. Instead of humans opening browsers and apps, autonomous systems start talking directly to APIs, databases, sensors, and other agents. IPv6 removes the address limitations and NAT complexity that break large-scale AI communication.
Learn how ISP access networks work using fiber, Satellite, LTE, DOCSIS, and fixed wireless to deliver Internet to customers
Large VLAN domains depend on spanning tree. Every topology change triggers recalculation and temporary forwarding loss. EVPN-VXLAN replaces large Layer 2 domains with routed underlays and distributed MAC learning. Regional ISPs use this to connect data centers, IX edge infrastructure, and broadband aggregation networks without stretching spanning tree across sites VXLAN encapsulates Ethernet frames inside … Read more
A leaf-and-spine design is a data center network topology that removes the traditional three-tier hierarchy and treats every path equally. Traditional three-tier networks build layers like access, distribution, and core. This structure creates choke points when traffic has to move northbound through specific devices. A leaf and spine fabric flattens that design so every leaf … Read more
All of these data centers are not showing up by accident. They are the physical response to a change in how the internet is used.
For network engineers, data center design goes beyond switches and routers. The goal is to create an environment where failures are predictable and repeatable, not just to ensure basic functionality.
If you’ve ever wondered how the capital I Internet actually works, you’re not alone! At its core, the Internet is a network of networks, and the way these networks connect has a big impact on the speed, cost, and reliability of our online lives. In this post, I’ll walk you through the basics of interconnection, … Read more
If VXLAN and EVPN are on your list to learn, here are some training courses for a great place to Start
Do you need help navigating your company’s interconnection strategy? I work with operators, ISPs, data centers, and content networks on interconnection-related matters. Here are some examples of how I can help you with: • Interconnection strategy and traffic engineering• Internet Exchange onboarding and expansion• Clean and accurate PeeringDB entries.• BGP policy design for IX, private … Read more
Autonomous System Provider Authorization (ASPA) addresses a longstanding gap in Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) security.
