Packets DownRange
The Alta Labs Route 10 is a clean, compact Route 10 built for people who care about throughput, simplicity, and not turning their rack into a space heater. Ten gig on tap, a tidy industrial design, and packaging that says “someone here sweats the details.”
If you’ve ever dug into the interface stats on a router or switch and seen a growing count of FCS errors or RX errors, you’re likely wondering: what do these mean—and should I be worried? The short answer: yes, you should investigate. These errors can indicate deeper issues in your network that may be causing … Read more
1. Basic VRF Architecture Diagram A single router with two VRFs (e.g., Customer_A and Customer_B), each with its own routing table and interface. Purpose: Shows how two VRFs keep overlapping IP spaces separated. 2. Traffic Isolation in VRFs Two devices connected to the same router but isolated via VRFs. 3. VRF Routing Tables Example Purpose: … Read more
The Global BGP Routing Table is a comprehensive database that contains all the IP address prefixes (routes), which are advertised by ASNs, and the associated paths to reach them across the internet.
Here are some steps to solve a customer’s home router slowness issue. I have found over the years 90+% of customer issues can be traced to the router at their home or location. 1. Diagnose the Problem Start by asking the customer for more details. Many times what is the problem is not really what … Read more
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
A route table is essentially a database used by a router to determine the optimal path for forwarding data packets. It consists of a collection of entries, each representing a destination network or a specific host. These entries contain essential information that helps the router make informed routing decisions. Key Components of a Route Table … Read more
Network routers are a bit like vampires—they thrive in the dark and cool. When heat waves strike, they huddle in server rooms, longing for winter or a polar vortex to save the day. Anything to escape the blistering heat that threatens their efficiency. Network routers are chill seekers. They yearn for the cool breeze, dream … Read more
Many higher-end routers have a specialized type of memory known as TCAM (Ternary Content Addressable Memory). In this post, I will explain the intricacies of TCAM memory in routers, exploring what it is, how it works, and its critical role in ensuring fast and accurate packet routing. Understanding TCAM Memory Ternary Content Addressable Memory (TCAM) … Read more
Welcome to issue #6 of Packets Down Range. The thing I am excited about lately is the 100 Gig passive mux by solid optics. One of the hats I wear is running an IX. We are always looking for ways to best utilize our dark fiber assets to increase data rates. Keep those tips and … Read more
Recently I came across a need to do some port forwarding for wifi calling. I have assembled a resource guide to help you if you need to do such things. IPSEC should be allowed per RFC 5996 https://tools.ietf.org/html/rfc5996 for all wifi calling Verizonhttps://community.verizonwireless.com/t5/Verizon-Wireless-Services/What-are-the-wifi-calling-firewall-ports-and-destination-IP/td-p/1080659UDP ports 500 and 4500 open to sg.vzwfemto.com and wo.vzwwo.com TMobilehttps://www.t-mobile.com/support/coverage/wi-fi-calling-on-a-corporate-networkIPv4 Address Block: 208.54.0.0/17 and … Read more
