BGP uses a routing algorithm to exchange network reachability information with other BGP supported devices. Network availability ad reachability information is exchanged between BGP peers in routing updates. This information contains a network number, path specific attributes and the list of autonomous system numbers a route transits to reach a destination. This list is contained in the AS path. BGP prevents routing loops by rejecting any routing update that contains a local autonomous system number, as this indicates the route has already traveled through that autonomous system and a loop would be created. BGP‘s routing algorithm is a combination of a distance vector routing algorithm and AS path loop detection.
The AS path contains a set of numbers for passing routing information. A BGP supported device adds its own autonomous system number to the list when it forwards an update message to external peers.
To define an AS path list:
Regular Expression | Provide a 64 character maximum regular expression unique to the AS path list rule. Regular expressions are used to specify patterns to match community attributes. |
Allow | Use the drop-down menu to Permit or Deny requests for network access using the defined AS path list. The default setting is deny. |