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Experiments in Topology Visualization using BGP-LS (RFC-8571)#

NZNOG 2026 digest Program Core pick 26–27 March 2026

Recording

Rick Williamson (Helios Software AU), Rob Simpson (Kordia Networks)

Play the recording: Experiments in Topology Visualization using BGP-LS (RFC-8571)

  • Why: BGP-LS is an underused source of live topology and TE data, and this is exactly the kind of experimental, adoptable tooling an operator program should surface. It ties directly to the PM's BGP/datapath-internals interest and offers hands-on access (remote lab network, iOS visualisation client) during the conference.
  • What: An experimental journey using BGP-LS as a practical live source of topology and traffic-engineering data for visualisation — started in a greenfields Public Safety Network, evolved into an approach suitable for organically grown operational networks (from abstract only).
  • How: BGP-LS (RFC 8571) exposes IGP link-state and TE information into BGP; a client consumes that feed to drive visual SPF computation and "what-if" simulations. The demo shows how link-state changes, failures, and metric adjustments propagate through BGP-LS in real time. They also outline a low-risk path for operators to trial BGP-LS in their own environments.
  • Where applicable: Broadly applicable to heterogeneous, organically grown networks running IGP + BGP — which is most of them. The greenfields origin is noted but the authors explicitly generalised it. The offer of lab/client access makes this the most immediately try-it-yourself talk in the program.