MANRS Triumph at SANOG 32
Discover how SANOG 32 advanced global routing security through MANRS initiatives, workshops, and key partnerships in Bangladesh.
The SANOG 32 conference, held in Dhaka, Bangladesh from August 2-10, 2018, stood as a landmark event in the evolution of Internet routing security. This gathering of South Asian network operators not only celebrated 15 years of regional collaboration but also propelled the Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security (MANRS) initiative to new heights. Through strategic workshops, high-level agreements, and community engagement, participants took concrete steps toward a more secure global Internet infrastructure.
Understanding MANRS and Its Growing Importance
MANRS represents a collaborative framework designed to mitigate prevalent routing vulnerabilities that plague the Internet. These issues, such as route leaks, hijacks, and spoofing, can disrupt services worldwide, leading to outages, data interception, or financial losses. By committing to four core actions—filtering routes, global validation of announcements, securing the global table, and anti-spoofing—network operators enhance the overall stability of BGP (Border Gateway Protocol), the backbone of Internet routing.
In recent years, the adoption of MANRS has accelerated, driven by real-world incidents that underscore its necessity. For instance, major route leaks have affected millions of users, highlighting the urgency for standardized security practices. At SANOG 32, this momentum was palpable, with sessions dedicated to practical implementation strategies.
Key Highlights from the SANOG 32 Conference
SANOG, or the South Asian Network Operators Group, has long been a hub for knowledge exchange among ISPs, IXPs, and policymakers in the region. The 32nd iteration drew over 200 attendees, fostering discussions on emerging technologies, policy, and security. Central to the event were MANRS-focused activities that bridged theory and practice.
- Network Security Workshop: A hands-on session equipped participants with tools for BGP monitoring and anomaly detection.
- MoU Signing Ceremony: A formal partnership elevated regional commitment to MANRS principles.
- Plenary Discussions: Experts shared case studies on successful deployments and challenges in resource-constrained environments.
These elements combined to create an environment ripe for actionable outcomes, reinforcing MANRS as a cornerstone of modern network operations.
The Landmark MoU with ISPAB
One of the conference’s crowning achievements was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Internet Society and the ISP Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB). This agreement commits ISPAB members—representing a significant portion of Bangladesh’s Internet service providers—to pursue MANRS compliance. The MoU outlines collaborative efforts, including training programs, awareness campaigns, and technical assistance to implement routing filters and validation mechanisms.
This partnership is particularly vital in Bangladesh, where Internet penetration has surged, but routing security lags behind. By aligning ISPAB with MANRS, the initiative gains a foothold in a market serving millions, potentially preventing localized incidents from escalating globally. Similar MoUs in other regions have led to measurable improvements, such as reduced invalid route announcements.
Hands-On Learning Through Security Workshops
The dedicated MANRS Network Security Workshop at SANOG 32 provided in-depth training on critical tools and techniques. Participants explored:
- BGP filtering configurations to prevent erroneous announcements.
- Resource Public Key Infrastructure (RPKI) for cryptographically validating routes.
- Monitoring platforms like those from the Internet Society to detect anomalies in real-time.
Instructors emphasized low-cost, high-impact measures suitable for operators of all sizes. Feedback from attendees highlighted the workshop’s role in demystifying complex concepts, with many pledging immediate actions upon return to their networks. This practical focus aligns with MANRS’s philosophy of incremental, collaborative progress.
Broader Regional Impact and Future Prospects
SANOG 32’s successes extend beyond immediate outcomes, signaling a shift in regional priorities toward proactive security. Bangladesh’s ISPAB MoU sets a precedent for neighboring countries, encouraging similar associations to formalize commitments. The Internet Society’s involvement ensures sustained support, including access to global resources and peer networks.
Looking ahead, MANRS adoption continues to grow worldwide. As of 2026, over 1,000 networks participate, covering a substantial share of global routing tables. Events like SANOG demonstrate how grassroots efforts amplify these gains, fostering a culture of shared responsibility.
Challenges in Implementing Routing Security
Despite progress, hurdles remain. Many operators face resource limitations, legacy equipment incompatibilities, and a steep learning curve for RPKI deployment. SANOG 32 addressed these through peer-led sessions, where veterans shared deployment timelines—often 3-6 months for initial filtering setups.
| Challenge | Solution Discussed at SANOG 32 | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Budgets | Open-source tools and phased rollouts | Cost savings up to 80% |
| Skill Gaps | Workshops and online resources | 50% faster implementation |
| Coordination Issues | MoUs and regional forums | Broader compliance rates |
This structured approach helps operators prioritize effectively.
Global Context: MANRS in 2026
Since SANOG 32, MANRS has evolved with enhancements like automated validation services and integration with IXP route servers. Recent data shows a 40% drop in certain route leaks among participants. The initiative’s collaboration with bodies like APNIC and RIPE NCC amplifies its reach, making events like SANOG integral to the global ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is MANRS?
MANRS is a set of voluntary norms for network operators to improve BGP routing security through filtering, validation, and coordination.
Why was SANOG 32 significant for MANRS?
It featured the ISPAB MoU and a security workshop, boosting adoption in South Asia.
How can operators join MANRS?
Visit manrs.org, implement the actions, and register for community recognition.
What are the benefits of MANRS compliance?
Reduced risk of hijacks, better reputation, and contribution to Internet stability.
Conclusion: Building a Resilient Internet
SANOG 32 exemplified how targeted events can drive systemic change. The ISPAB MoU and workshop outcomes underscore MANRS’s role in fortifying the Internet against evolving threats. As adoption spreads, the vision of a secure, reliable global network draws closer, powered by community-driven initiatives.
References
- Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security (MANRS) — Internet Society. 2018-08-27. https://manrs.org/2018/08/sanog-32-another-success-story-for-manrs/
- SANOG 32 Conference Presentation: MANRS — SANOG / Aftab Siddiqui, Internet Society. 2018. https://www.sanog.org/resources/sanog32/SANOG32_Conference-MANRS.pdf
- Deployment of Source Address Validation in the Internet — CAIDA. 2019. https://www.caida.org/catalog/papers/2019_network_hygiene_incentives_regulation/network_hygiene_incentives_regulation.pdf
- MANRS Overview — MANRS.org. Accessed 2026. https://manrs.org/
- The MANRS Initiative to Secure Global Internet Routing — Kentik Telemetry Now. 2023. https://www.kentik.com/telemetrynow/s01-e13/
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