Understanding Leaf and Spine Switching in Modern Data Centers

leaf and spine

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

Interconnection, peering, IRR, and other things I can help your network with.

Interconnection

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

Network related Valentine

Roses are red. Packets are neat. I’d reroute the whole internet Just to land at your IP. You’re my default gateway When my heart drops a route. No packet loss here Just love, end-to-end, absolute. If life were BGP And paths split in two, I’d set local-pref high So I always choose you. Our chemistry’s … Read more

What is an AS-SET?

Interconnection

An AS-SET is a collection of Autonomous System Numbers grouped under a single name. Rather than listing each ASN individually in your routing policy, you just refer to the set, and the routing registry handles the details. You can think of it like a mailing list for networks.