What is BGP next-hop-self and why you should care?

In this blog post, we’ll demystify the concept of next-hop-self in BGP, why it’s crucial, and how it affects routing decisions. What Is Next-Hop-Self in BGP? In BGP, the “next hop” is the IP address used to reach a particular network or destination. The “next-hop” IP address is vital for making routing decisions and forwarding … Read more

The Little Packet that could. A journey of a network packet through the Internet.

Blue computer wires

In the vast and interconnected landscape of the digital world, data packets are the unsung heroes that power our online experiences. These small, seemingly unremarkable data units are like the “Little Engine That Could,” tirelessly chugging along to ensure our emails, videos, and messages reach their intended destinations. In this blog post, we embark on … Read more

Quantum Computing, and why you, as an Internet Service Provider should care

Quantum computing is one of those buzzwords floating around. Should you, as an Internet Service Provider, care? In this blog post, I will go over, at a high level, what quantum computing is and what to watch if you are a Service Provider. Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex computations … Read more

Understanding what is Ethernet Virtual Private Network ( EVPN )

Ethernet Virtual Private Network (EVPN) is designed to provide scalable and efficient data center interconnectivity. Built upon the foundation of traditional Ethernet, EVPN incorporates the best features of layer 2 and layer 3 protocols to create a flexible and secure network fabric. It offers seamless bridging and routing of traffic across data centers, making it … Read more

Looking at leasing IP Addresses?

Are you looking at leasing some IP addresses for your ISP or company? If so, check out ARIN’s page on IP leasing. The biggest thing ISPs should pay attention to the following:Address space leased without providing Internet services cannot be used for justification when requesting IPv4 addresses from the Waiting List (4.1.8) or specified market … Read more

Problems with Borger Gateway Protocol (BGP)

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is the Internet’s dominant inter-domain routing protocol, and as such, it is a critical component of the Internet’s infrastructure. However, BGP, like any other technology, has flaws. The following are some of the most common BGP issues: Some of the above issues are being addressed with RPKI, Routing Registries, and MANRS, … Read more

What is a Data Center

Data centers are the backbone of the digital world. They house the servers, storage systems, and other critical infrastructure that support the internet and the cloud. A data center is essentially a secure and controlled environment designed to house IT equipment, providing organizations with the power, cooling, and connectivity required to keep their systems and … Read more

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) in a nutshell

I have been busy writing some posts on some general topics for those readers who want some high-level overviews of various network terms and items. Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is the core routing protocol used to exchange information about network reachability between routers in the Internet. BGP enables routers to make informed decisions about the … Read more

The Mess we call BGP

Ever wonder why BGP seems to be such a complicated protocol to administer? It seems pretty straightforward to set up. Some commands, and you have a BGP session. Easy huh? BGP is one of those things where the more BGP feeds you bring in, the more complex traffic management becomes. Why? Take a look at … Read more

Arin 2Factor Authentication statistics

Recently, Arin sent out an email with the following statement. In 2015, ARIN deployed a Time-Based One-Time password (TOTP) implementation of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). Since the time of implementing that login security feature, 3.2 percent of ARIN Online users have opted to use 2FA with their accounts. AVG has a great article on what 2Factor … Read more

Foundations weekly e-mail

Christian Koch has a great weekly e-mail about Data Centers, Interconnection, and other topics. If you are in these spaces it’s worth the subscription. https://www.foundations.email/about/The primary weekly briefing newsletter is delivered by email every Monday at 7:30 AM (ET/New York), keeping readers up-to-date with top news and developments, analysis, and expert commentary on the technology … Read more