Continuous monitoring of IXP peering LANs.
Why?
Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are platforms where many different networks connect to each other to exchange internet traffic. This exchange takes place inside the peering LAN. Incorrect configuration of routers at the network’s edge can lead to disruptions in the routing of traffic between the networks connected to an IXP.
These disruptions can affect performance, but they are often difficult to locate and may even go completely unnoticed by monitoring systems.
Solution
IXpect analyzes a specific category of network traffic known as BUM traffic (broadcast, unknown unicast, and multicast) on a standard port in the peering LAN. This type of traffic shows unusual patterns when the system is not configured correctly and can help to detect a wide range of configuration errors and attacks on peers in the peering LAN.
IXpect imports the network parameters of the routers from existing configuration solutions (e.g., IXP Manager). If IXpect detects an issue, the event is logged. Depending on the severity of the incident, the information can be forwarded to the IXP's Network Operations Centre as a notification (for instance via email, Matrix or HTTP callout) for further analysis.
Advantages
Instead of using multiple tools to monitor various parameters of the peering LAN, IXpect is a modern tool that combines all analysis functions. It implements the features of classic tools such as arpwatch, IXP-watch, and ndmon, and is specifically designed for use in IXP peering LANs. Through improved monitoring of network activity and issue detection, IXpect helps to maintain IXPs running smoothly.
You want to actively participate in IXpect and let your ideas and skills flow into our open-source project?
Find out here how to become part of the developer community around IXpect and come aboard:
