Knowledge Base

What is an ASN (Autonomous System Number) and Why Do I Need One?

ASN, which can be translated into Turkish as Autonomous System Number, is a unique number that identifies large networks on the internet. These networks are IP address blocks under a single technical administration and exhibiting a consistent routing policy. In other words, if you manage your own IP address block and exchange data with other networks using BGP (Border Gateway Protocol), you need an ASN.

The main reasons for having an ASN are:

• Independence: You have the freedom to determine and implement your own routing policies.
• Performance: You can optimize your network performance by routing your traffic in the most optimal way.
• Redundancy: You can increase the continuity of your network by connecting to multiple internet service providers (ISPs).
• Control: You have more control over your internet traffic.

For example, if you are a large hosting company, a cloud service provider, or a company with offices in multiple locations, having an ASN will provide you with great advantages. Otherwise, you will have to use an ISP's ASN, which may limit your control.

For more information, you can visit our What is an ASN? page.

What Conditions Do I Need to Meet to Obtain an ASN?

There are some basic conditions that you must meet to obtain an ASN. These conditions are determined by regional internet registries (RIRs). The most common RIRs include RIPE NCC (Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia), ARIN (North America), APNIC (Asia-Pacific), LACNIC (Latin America and the Caribbean), and AfriNIC (Africa). If you operate in Turkey, you will need to apply to RIPE NCC.

The basic conditions are usually:

1. Unique Routing Policy: You need to prove that your network follows a routing policy that is different and independent from other networks.
2. Multiple Connections: You need to have connections with multiple internet service providers (ISPs) or demonstrate that you plan to establish these connections in the future. This is important to ensure the redundancy and continuity of your network.
3. IP Address Resources: You need to have an IP address block (usually /24 or larger). These IP addresses must be assigned to you by the RIR or inherited from another organization.
4. Operational and Technical Capability: You need to demonstrate that you have the necessary technical knowledge and infrastructure to manage your network and configure BGP routing.
5. Required Documents: You need to submit all documents requested by the RIR (company registration certificate, network diagram, routing policy description, etc.) completely and accurately.

Important Note: These conditions may vary from RIR to RIR. It is important to visit the relevant RIR's website and check the current conditions and application procedures before applying.

Which Companies Can I Work With to Obtain an ASN?

Obtaining an ASN is possible by applying directly to RIRs. However, this process can be complex and require technical knowledge. Therefore, many companies offer consulting and support services in the ASN application process.

These companies typically offer:

• Guidance in the application process
• Assistance in preparing the necessary documents
• Technical consulting (BGP configuration, routing policy optimization, etc.)
• Support in communicating with the RIR

Some companies that offer ASN services include:

• Local Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Many ISPs can help their customers obtain an ASN.
• Consulting Firms: There are consulting firms that specialize in the ASN application process.
• Network Management Companies: Some companies that offer network management services can also support the ASN application process.

Some factors to consider when choosing a company include:

• Experience: How experienced the company is in the ASN application process.
• References: Being able to obtain references from the company's previous clients.
• Price: The price of the services offered by the company.
• Support: How much support the company provides during and after the application process.

How Much Do ASN Prices Cost?

The cost of obtaining an ASN can vary depending on several factors. These factors include:

• RIR Fees: RIRs charge fees for ASN allocation and annual membership. These fees vary from RIR to RIR.
• Consulting Fees: If you are working with a consulting firm, you will also need to pay a fee for their services.
• IP Address Cost: If you do not already have an IP address block, you will need to purchase or lease one. IP address prices may vary depending on market conditions and the size of the IP address block.
• Infrastructure Costs: The cost of hardware and software infrastructure required to support BGP routing.

The following table provides a general idea of the current ASN allocation and annual membership fees for different RIRs (These figures are subject to change, please check the relevant RIR's website):

Important Note: The fees in this table only cover ASN allocation and membership fees. Other costs (consulting, IP address, infrastructure, etc.) are not included in these figures.

How to Apply for an ASN? Step-by-Step Process

ASN applications are made online through the RIRs' websites. The application process generally consists of the following steps:

1. RIR Selection: Choose the correct RIR based on the region in which you operate (RIPE NCC for Turkey).
2. Membership Application: Apply to become a member of the RIR. Membership application usually requires a company registration and contact information.
3. Preparation of Required Documents: Prepare all the documents requested by the RIR. These documents may include company registration certificate, network diagram, routing policy statement, multi-homing proof, etc.
4. ASN Application: Apply for an ASN online through the RIR's website. In the application form, you will need to provide detailed information about your network (network size, connection types, routing policy, etc.).
5. Review of Application: The RIR will review your application and the documents you have submitted. If necessary, they may request additional information or documents.
6. ASN Allocation: If your application is approved, the RIR will allocate an ASN to you.
7. BGP Configuration: After receiving your ASN, you will need to configure BGP routing. This involves configuring your routers and network devices to exchange data with other networks via BGP.

Important Note: It is important to be in regular communication with the RIR during the application process and to provide all the information they request completely and accurately. Otherwise, your application may be rejected.

I Don't Have the Necessary Technical Knowledge to Obtain an ASN, What Should I Do?

Obtaining an ASN and configuring BGP routing is a process that requires technical knowledge. If you do not have sufficient knowledge in this area, you can consider the following options:

• Getting Consulting Services: You can get support from a consulting firm specializing in the ASN application process and BGP configuration.
• Taking Training: You can improve your knowledge and skills by taking training on BGP routing and network management.
• Using Outsourcing: You can delegate technical tasks such as network management and BGP configuration to an expert company.
• Asking for Help from Your ISP: Your internet service provider (ISP) may be able to help you with BGP configuration.

Important Note: A misconfigured BGP routing can cause serious problems in your network. Therefore, it is important to avoid configuring BGP without technical knowledge.

For example, a basic Cisco router configuration for BGP configuration might look like this:

router bgp 65001
 neighbor 192.168.1.1 remote-as 65002
 neighbor 192.168.1.1 description Peer ISP
 neighbor 192.168.1.1 update-source GigabitEthernet0/0
 neighbor 192.168.1.1 next-hop-self
 !
 address-family ipv4 unicast
  network 10.0.0.0 mask 255.255.255.0
  neighbor 192.168.1.1 activate
 exit-address-family

This code example shows a router with ASN 65001 establishing a BGP session with a neighbor with IP address 192.168.1.1 and ASN 65002. This is just an example and the actual configuration will vary depending on your network's needs and topology.

I Got My ASN, So What Should I Do Now?

After obtaining your ASN, there are some important steps you need to take. These steps are important to ensure that your network is routed correctly on the internet and that its performance is optimized.

1. BGP Configuration: Configure your routers and network devices to support BGP routing. This includes configuring your ASN, neighbor ASNs, and routing policies.
2. Route Advertisement: Announce your IP address blocks on the internet. This allows other networks to know how to reach your network.
3. Route Filtering: Enhance security and block unnecessary traffic by filtering traffic entering and leaving your network.
4. Network Monitoring: Regularly monitor your network performance and BGP sessions. This allows you to detect and resolve issues early.
5. Communication with RIR: Stay in communication with the RIR and notify the RIR of any changes to your network (IP address changes, routing policy changes, etc.).

The following table summarizes the basic steps to be taken after obtaining an ASN and the importance of these steps:

Real-Life Example: An e-commerce company decides to obtain an ASN due to increasing traffic volume and performance requirements. By obtaining their own ASN, they connect to multiple ISPs and improve the speed and reliability of their websites by routing traffic through the most optimal path. In addition, by defining their own routing policies, they provide a better experience for users in specific regions.

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