The Domain Name System, or DNS, is often perceived as a fundamental yet auxiliary service in the vast world of networking. For routing enthusiasts, DNS might initially appear peripheral, a layer removed from the direct manipulation of packet flows or the configuration of BGP neighbors. However, understanding DNS is essential for anyone seeking a holistic…

Domain reachability issues can be frustrating for users and critical for businesses, as they disrupt access to websites, applications, and services. Troubleshooting such issues requires a comprehensive understanding of the components involved in routing and DNS, as well as a methodical approach to diagnosing and resolving problems. These issues can stem from a wide range…

Route leaks and BGP hijacks are two distinct but closely related phenomena in the realm of internet routing. Both involve anomalies in the operation of the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), the protocol responsible for interconnecting autonomous systems (ASes) and directing traffic across the internet. While the two terms are often used interchangeably by those less…

NetFlow and sFlow are powerful technologies that enable the collection of network traffic data, providing deep insights into traffic patterns, performance, and security for domain operators. These tools are instrumental in domain analytics, helping organizations monitor, optimize, and secure their networks. By collecting and analyzing flow data, domain operators can gain visibility into how traffic…

DNS-based routing decisions play a critical role in modern internet architecture, enabling dynamic and intelligent traffic management based on various parameters such as user location, server availability, and network performance. The Domain Name System (DNS) is a fundamental component of the internet, translating human-readable domain names into IP addresses. However, beyond its primary function of…

Route servers have become a critical component of the global internet’s interconnection infrastructure, transforming how networks exchange traffic at internet exchange points (IXPs) and beyond. By acting as centralized facilitators for route sharing, route servers simplify peering relationships, reduce administrative complexity, and enhance the efficiency of traffic exchange. As the internet continues to grow in…

The choice between hardware routers and software routers is a critical decision in network design and operation, with significant implications for performance, scalability, cost, and flexibility. Both approaches have distinct advantages and limitations, making them suitable for different use cases and environments. Understanding the differences between hardware and software routers, as well as their respective…

Default routing is a fundamental concept in network design, often employed as a simple and efficient way to direct traffic to its destination when a more specific route is not available in a router’s routing table. By configuring a default route, a network operator ensures that packets with unknown destinations are forwarded to a designated…

Multi-POP (Point of Presence) deployments have become a cornerstone of modern network infrastructure, enabling organizations to deliver services with high performance, reliability, and geographic reach. By establishing multiple POPs across regions, networks can bring content and services closer to end users, reducing latency and improving user experiences. However, the effectiveness of a multi-POP architecture hinges…

For domain operators, routers are critical infrastructure components that facilitate the routing of traffic across networks, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery of data to end users. Proper router configuration is essential for maintaining optimal performance, security, and connectivity. Whether managing a small network or a complex, globally distributed system, understanding the foundational principles of router…