Private vs. Public Autonomous System Numbers (ASN): What’s the Difference?

Interconnection

In the world of internet networking, Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs) play a crucial role in routing data efficiently between different networks. ASNs are unique identifiers assigned to Autonomous Systems (AS)—large networks or groups of IP addresses that operate under a single organization, such as ISPs, cloud providers, or large enterprises. However, not all ASNs are … Read more

Patreon Post: Mikrotik tagging incoming routes with a community

This content is for Patreon subscribers of the j2 blog. Please consider becoming a Patreon subscriber for as little as $1 a month. This helps to provide higher quality content, more podcasts, and other goodies on this blog.To view this content, you must be a member of Justin’s Patreon Unlock with PatreonAlready a qualifying Patreon … Read more

Setting Up a BGP Peer with Mikrotik RouterOS Version 7

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is an essential protocol for internet routing, enabling autonomous systems (AS) to communicate and exchange routing information. Mikrotik RouterOS Version 7 introduced significant enhancements to its BGP implementation, making it more powerful and versatile. This guide walks you through setting up a BGP peer using RouterOS Version 7. Prerequisites Before proceeding, … Read more

Configuring BGP Filters on MikroTik RouterOS v7: Part1

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is essential for dynamic routing in modern networks. MikroTik’s RouterOS version 7 introduces significant updates to BGP functionality, making it more efficient and flexible. This guide walks you through configuring BGP filters on MikroTik RouterOS v7 to manage route propagation effectively. Prerequisites Before diving into the configuration, ensure: Step 1: Access … Read more

How Does TCAM Work in Routers?

In a previous post, I asked if TCAM is still needed in modern routers. In this post, I will examine how TCAM works in routers and provide some more insight into TCAM. In a router, TCAM stores and processes rules for various functions. These rules are typically derived from: Steps for TCAM Lookup: Why Do … Read more

How Route Servers Work on an Internet Exchange Point (IXP)

In the world of Internet connectivity, Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) play a crucial role in facilitating efficient traffic exchange between networks. Within this ecosystem, route servers act as intermediaries to streamline the process of establishing connections, known as peering, between multiple networks. Here’s an overview of how route servers work and why they are vital … Read more

Why BGP is the Backbone of the Internet: Understanding the Importance of Border Gateway Protocol

The Internet, as we know it today, is a vast network of interconnected systems that allow seamless communication, data transfer, and access to information. But have you ever wondered how data finds its way across such a sprawling network? This is where BGP, or Border Gateway Protocol. While it operates quietly behind the scenes, BGP … Read more

Understanding BGP Hold Timers

At its core, a Hold Timer in BGP refers to the duration a BGP speaker (router) will wait for updates from its peer before considering the connection as possibly down. It’s a timeout mechanism that ensures BGP routers stay synchronized and prevents unnecessary route flapping or instability. Importance of BGP Hold Timers Configuring BGP Hold … Read more

Navigating the Complexity of Full BGP Routes: A Deep Dive into Border Gateway Protocol

In networking and internet connectivity, the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) stands out as a crucial protocol responsible for routing data packets across the vast expanse of the internet. At the heart of BGP lies the concept of routing tables, and within that domain, the notion of full BGP routes takes center stage. In this blog … Read more