Implementing BGP on Cisco IOS XR Software

How to Implement BGP on Cisco IOS XR Software

cluster ID so that a route reflector can recognize updates from route reflectors in the same cluster. All route reflectors serving a cluster should be fully meshed and all of them should have identical sets of client and nonclient peers.

By default, the clients of a route reflector are not required to be fully meshed and the routes from a client are reflected to other clients. However, if the clients are fully meshed, the route reflector need not reflect routes to clients.

As the iBGP learned routes are reflected, routing information may loop. The route reflector model has the following mechanisms to avoid routing loops:

Originator ID is an optional, nontransitive BGP attribute. It is a 4-byte attributed created by a route reflector. The attribute carries the router ID of the originator of the route in the local autonomous system. Therefore, if a misconfiguration causes routing information to come back to the originator, the information is ignored.

Cluster-list is an optional, nontransitive BGP attribute. It is a sequence of cluster IDs that the route has passed. When a route reflector reflects a route from its clients to nonclient peers, and vice versa, it appends the local cluster ID to the cluster-list. If the cluster-list is empty, a new cluster-list is created. Using this attribute, a route reflector can identify if routing information is looped back to the same cluster due to misconfiguration. If the local cluster ID is found in the cluster-list, the advertisement is ignored.

Default Address Family for show Commands

Most of the show commands require the address family (afi) and subsequent address family (safi) to be specified as arguments. The Cisco IOS XR software parser provides the ability to set the afi and safi so it is not necessary to specify them while executing a show command. The parser commands are:

set default-afi {ipv4 ipv6 all}

set default-safi {unicast multicast all}

The parser automatically sets the default afi value to ipv4 and default safi value to unicast. It is necessary to use only the parser commands to change the default afi value from ipv4 or default safi value from unicast. Any afi or safi keyword specified in a show command overrides the values set using the parser commands. Use the following command to check the currently set value of the afi and safi:

show default-afi-safi

How to Implement BGP on Cisco IOS XR Software

This section contains instructions for the following tasks:

Enabling BGP Routing, page RC-28(required)

Configuring a Routing Domain Confederation for BGP, page RC-31(optional)

Resetting eBGP Session Immediately Upon Link Failure, page RC-33(optional)

Logging Neighbor Changes, page RC-34(optional)

Adjusting BGP Timers, page RC-34(optional)

Changing the BGP Default Local Preference Value, page RC-35(optional)

Configuring the MED Metric for BGP, page RC-36(optional)

Configuring BGP Weights, page RC-38(optional)

Cisco IOS XR Routing Configuration Guide

RC-27

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Cisco Systems manual How to Implement BGP on Cisco IOS XR Software, Default Address Family for show Commands, RC-27

IOS XR specifications

Cisco Systems IOS XR is an advanced operating system designed specifically for high-performance routers and service provider networks. It serves as the backbone for many of Cisco's high-end routing platforms, enabling service providers to manage their networks with increased efficiency, flexibility, and scalability.

One of the main features of IOS XR is its modular architecture. This allows for the independent operation of various components within the OS, facilitating the deployment of new features and updates without affecting the overall stability of the system. This modularity ensures that service providers can implement rapid changes and enhancements while maintaining service continuity.

Another characteristic of IOS XR is its support for 64-bit architecture, which provides enhanced performance and the ability to manage larger amounts of data. This is particularly beneficial for service providers that deal with high traffic volumes and require robust data processing capabilities. The utilization of 64-bit technology also enables the operating system to utilize memory more efficiently, allowing for greater scalability.

IOS XR incorporates advanced technologies such as Distributed System Architecture (DSA) and Multiple Routing Instances (Merging Routes). DSA allows for the distribution of routing processes across multiple hardware resources, maximizing performance and redundancy. Multiple Routing Instances enable operators to create separate logical routing tables for different services, improving isolation and efficiency in managing network traffic.

The operating system also focuses heavily on security, featuring extensive encryption methods and access controls to safeguard network resources. IOS XR supports various authentication protocols, ensuring secure access to routers and switches. In addition, the OS includes comprehensive logging and monitoring capabilities, allowing network administrators to track activities and respond quickly to potential threats.

Another critical aspect of IOS XR is its adherence to the principles of service-oriented architecture (SOA). This approach permits the development of applications and services that can operate independently, fostering innovation and enabling service providers to tailor their offerings based on customer demands.

Ultimately, Cisco IOS XR is a powerful, reliable operating system that meets the complex needs of modern telecommunications networks. With its focus on modularity, performance, security, and scalability, it enables service providers to deliver high-quality, resilient services to their customers while efficiently managing network resources. As the industry continues to evolve, IOS XR remains a vital tool for those aiming to stay competitive in the ever-changing landscape of networking.