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Strengthening the technological backbone of National Research and Education Networks in Mongolia and Afghanistan through IPv6 and RPKI implementation for scalable, secure, and future-proof architectures
Explore Project
This transformative project strengthens the technological backbone of National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) in Mongolia and Afghanistan by implementing advanced networking technologies including IPv6 and RPKI.
With comprehensive support from the Asi@Connect initiative, ErdemNet and AfgREN are transitioning from legacy internet infrastructure toward scalable, secure, and future-proof architectures that serve as reference points for the Asia-Pacific region.
This bilateral project focuses on strengthening NREN capabilities in Mongolia and Afghanistan through advanced networking technology deployment and capacity building.
ErdemNet - Lead NREN with active IPv6 and RPKI deployment
AfgREN - Co-applicant NREN for parallel technology implementation
Lead Institution: ErdemNet (Mongolia)
Co-Applicant: AfgREN (Afghanistan)
Focus: IPv6 + RPKI Deployment
Community: mnNOG & SANOG
Complete transition to IPv6+ networking with 464XLAT for backward compatibility with IPv4 internet
Resource Public Key Infrastructure with ROA (Route Origin Authorization) and ROV (Route Origin Validation)
Enhanced routing security through resilient RPKI deployment with multiple validation tools and servers
Infrastructure modernization to support Router-to-Router updates and advanced networking protocols
Developing comprehensive baseline of current network infrastructure using APNIC and RIPE Atlas data sources. Procurement planning for replacement hardware and network upgrades.
Implementing best practices for resilient RPKI by piloting two distinct validation tools on separate servers. Infrastructure upgrades to support Router-to-Router updates.
Initiating transition to IPv6+ for both ErdemNet and AfgREN networks, targeting IPv6+ only networking with 464XLAT for backward compatibility.
Supporting ErdemNet and AfgREN as focal points for Network Operator Groups (mnNOG & SANOG) on ROV and IPv6+ networking. Participation in APAN Network Engineering Workshops.
Lead NREN for Mongolia providing project coordination and primary implementation site
Co-applicant NREN for Afghanistan supporting parallel technology deployment
Technical consultant providing specialized expertise in IPv6 and RPKI implementation
Mongolia Network Operators Group - affiliated entity for community engagement
Network Startup Resource Center providing technical resources and training support
Educational partner delivering instructor-level training and certification programs
Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre providing address allocation and technical coordination
IPv6 address plan finalized, revised twice, and currently being deployed in educational networks, starting with schools in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
RPKI validator successfully installed and tested in virtual environment at ErdemNet's data center, ready for full implementation post-hardware upgrade.
Instructor-level training in Networking Essentials and CCNA conducted for stakeholders from all provinces and major districts via WebEx platform.
IPv6 and RPKI awareness promoted through mnNOG#4, APNIC, and APAN events, involving stakeholders, universities, and government ministries.
Following project advocacy, National University of Mongolia joined APNIC and upgraded from iBGP to eBGP for enhanced connectivity.
Local IPv6+ capacity significantly improved through comprehensive training programs reaching stakeholders across multiple provinces and districts.
Expanding advanced networking technology adoption across the Asia-Pacific region through sustained deployment, enhanced training, and strategic partnerships.
Deploy ROV on core routers post-procurement to fully validate routing paths across the academic network infrastructure.
Extend IPv6 deployment to rural schools using MPLS and OSPFv3 in coordination with national telecom providers.
Incorporate advanced ROA/ROV modules into Cisco courses for deeper understanding and broader adoption of routing security.
Use ErdemNet's implementation as a reference case for other NRENs transitioning to IPv6 and RPKI technologies.
Seek renewed engagement with AfgREN once conditions stabilize to implement parallel IPv6 and RPKI activities.
Establish Mongolia as a regional leader in advanced networking technologies and best practices sharing.