We are excited to announce an important update to our BGP route advertisement process, designed to enhance the integrity and efficiency of our network interactions. As part of our ongoing commitment to improving service quality and network performance, Secure Access has implemented a significant change in how we handle AS Path information during route advertisement.
What's Changing?
Previously, Secure Access would often strip all AS Path information from incoming BGP route advertisements and only advertise routes with our own AS number. This led to peer routers receiving their own routes or prefixes back with a shorter AS Path, potentially affecting routing decisions and network performance. Stripping of AS Path impacts use of BGP loop prevention functionality and route prioritization based on AS Path lengths.
With the new update, Secure Access will now standardize this approach across all configurations:
- Retain AS Path Information Universally: We will maintain the original AS Path information for all incoming route advertisements, regardless of the branch or DC configuration. This ensures transparency and upholds the integrity of routing data as it traverses our network.
- Appended Secure Access AS Number: Our AS number will be appended to the existing AS Path when redistributing routes. This adjustment maintains clarity on the route's journey through our network.
- Intelligent Prefix Filtering: To prevent routing loops and redundant advertisements, any prefix that contains the peer router's AS number in its AS Path will be automatically filtered out. This ensures that peer routers do not receive their own routes back, preserving network efficiency and accuracy.
Benefits of the Change:
- Improved Routing Accuracy: By consistently retaining and appending AS Path information, we ensure that routing decisions are based on complete and accurate data.
- Enhanced Network Efficiency: Filtering out prefixes with the peer router's AS number prevents unnecessary route advertisements and potential routing loops.
Effective Date:
This change will take effect globally on 14th March 2025. We recommend reviewing your current network configurations to align with this update.
For any questions or further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our support team.
Thank you for your continued trust in Secure Access. We look forward to delivering even greater value and performance through these improvements.
