What Is BGP and Why Does It Matter?
Published by Exascale
Published · Updated
Border Gateway Protocol, or BGP, is used by networks to exchange routing information. It helps determine how traffic reaches destinations across the internet.
BGP in practical terms
Networks announce which IP prefixes they can reach. Routing policies then influence which paths are selected, allowing operators to manage connectivity between networks.
When organisations use BGP
BGP may be relevant to networks with their own autonomous system, IP address space, multiple upstream providers, peering relationships or specialist routing requirements.
Plan with experienced engineers
Routing design should account for resilience, filtering, monitoring and operational responsibility. Requirements vary, so technical review is important before deployment.
Explore IP transit or contact Exascale to discuss requirements and availability.
Continue with the right guide
Build on this with What Is IP Transit and Who Needs It? and Peering vs IP Transit: What’s the Difference?.
For independent guidance, see RIPE NCC’s routing security and RPKI guidance.