Knowledge base
February 11, 2025
What is RPKI and why is it important?
The Internet is one of the main pillars of our modern world, but it is not without risks. Cyber attacks and route hijackings are a real threat. Fortunately, RPKI (Resource Public Key Infrastructure)¹ offers a solution to make the Internet’s routing infrastructure more secure and reliable. But what exactly is RPKI, why is it important and how can you get started with RPKI?
What is RPKI? 🤔
RPKI is a technology that ensures that IP addresses and routes on the Internet are reliable. It helps Internet service providers and network administrators ensure that traffic is routed through the correct routes. This prevents, for example, route hijacking or misconfigured routes, which can lead to data breaches or interruptions. With RPKI,:
- Owners of IP addresses prove that they own a specific block of addresses.
- Networks prevent traffic from being diverted to unsafe or undesirable routes.
In short, RPKI is a kind of “lock on the door” of Internet traffic. 🔒
Why is RPKI important? 🌍
RPKI plays a major role in improving the security and reliability of the Internet. Without RPKI, malicious parties (such as hackers) can redirect traffic through their own network, which can lead to:
- Data theft 🛡️
- Network outage 🔌
- Trust issues ❌
By using RPKI you ensure:
- A safer Internet experience for your users.
- Better collaboration between networks.
- Preventing serious incidents in the future.
How can you get started with RPKI? 🚀
Want to implement RPKI? Here are a few tips to get started:
- Check your current configuration: Use tools such as Internet.nl² to see if RPKI is set up correctly.
- Implement RPKI certificates: Work with your Regional Internet Registry (e.g. RIPE NCC in Europe³) to request certificates.
- Check regularly: Make sure your configuration stays up-to-date and that certificates do not expire.
- Keep learning: Read documentation and follow updates such as Internet.co.uk release notes.
Monitoring RPKI and secure route announcements.
An RPKI test verifies that an RPKI Route Origin Authorization (ROA) has been published for the IP addresses of your domain’s name servers. This ensures that your network is protected from forged route announcements. Without RPKI, malicious actors or misconfigurations can cause traffic to your server to be intercepted or make your server unreachable. RPKI provides a solution by publishing a digitally signed ROA that accepts only valid routes. This prevents traffic from being sent to unauthorized networks and increases the reliability and security of your Internet connection.
RPKI test result alta-ict.co.uk Source: internet.co.uk
Conclusion: A Safer Internet with RPKI 🌐🔒
RPKI is a powerful and indispensable technology in the fight against route hijacking and other security threats on the Internet. By validating routes and providing a reliable routing structure, RPKI contributes to a more secure and stable Internet. Although implementation requires some technical knowledge and effort, the benefits are significant: reduced risk of cyber attacks, more control over your network and a reliable online environment for users. 🌍💪
Do you want to contribute to a more secure Internet? Then now is the time to embrace RPKI and future-proof your network! 🚀
References
¹https://www.communicatierijk.nl/vakkennis/rijkswebsites/verplichte-richtlijnen/rpki
²https://internet.nl/ ³https://www.ripe.net/community/internet-governance/multi-stakeholder-engagement/eu/
About the author
My name is Alta Martes, a specialist in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, with a focus on modern workplace management, cloud security and identity & access management. With years of experience, I help organizations optimize their IT infrastructure and create a secure, efficient digital workplace. 🎯 Need help with your Microsoft 365 strategy?
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