RIPE 86: What’s new in the world of internet number resources?
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Internet service providers, network operators and other interested parties convened in the Netherlands for the RIPE NCC community meeting on 22–26 May 2023. The agenda points up for discussion at the event in Rotterdam included RIPE policies and procedures on allocating internet number resources, Working Group updates on technical and policy issues, as well as recent industry developments and best practices.
In today’s digital age, electronic communications play a crucial role in our daily lives, from business dealings to personal relationships. This is why the importance of secure time distribution over the public internet was mentioned at the meeting. Netnod, the Swedish national time distributor, ensures seamless and accurate communication throughout the Nordics. But what makes Netnod stand out is its ability to provide time distribution services to customers beyond the Nordic region. Here the issue of the reduction of network power consumption also comes into play. As Peter Ehiwe from Stripe pointed out at the event, there are ways to reduce this through the use of techniques such as sleep mode and rate adaptation. With a sustainable network in place, we empower and enable future generations to thrive in a connected world.
As the internet keeps evolving, the question of IPv6 readiness has become increasingly important for the web’s future. Florian Streibelt’s statement about IPv6-only resolution highlighted the existing challenges. Almost half of the zones under consideration aren’t IPv6-only resolvable, which may impair the web’s IPv6 readiness. To address this issue, the recommendation is to monitor IPv6 access across the entire delegation chain. While these may seem like daunting tasks, we must take an optimistic and empowering approach to ensure that the web remains accessible and resilient.
The world of open-source software has seen a significant change with the arrival of the EU’s Cyber Resilience Act. Bastiaan Goslings, a member of RIPE NCC, welcomed its exemption of open-source software. This brings a sense of relief for many who prefer open-source solutions. However, the exemption doesn’t come without its challenges. The definition of an open-source company is not very clear, and the terminology doesn’t fit the way open-source software is developed.
Benno Overeinder highlighted the need for clear definitions and security standards in the Cyber Resilience Act. What needs to be defined, he argued, is what commercial activity means and what types of organisations are regulated.
As Robert Carolina explained in his discussion of the EU’s new Product Liability Directive, software will now be regarded as a product, which means that software manufacturers will be liable for any damage suffered by victims due to defective software products. Developers and companies alike must familiarise themselves with these new regulations.
Meanwhile, RIPE NCC Anti-Abuse Training is drawing attention from both newcomers and experienced members of the tech industry, thanks to Gerardo Viviers’ updates. The importance of properly dealing with abuse reports cannot be overstated, and those who neglect to do so could face serious consequences for their inaction. Theodoros Fyllaridis delved into how RIPE NCC handles requests from law enforcement agencies, including orders for information and specific action. He explained how RIPE NCC may also respond to requests for the seizure of RIPE NCC equipment and property as part of an investigation.
The issue of inclusivity in the tech sector was addressed in a session called “Diversity in Tech”. Claudia Leopardi from RIPE argued that better intergenerational inclusivity in the industry is needed. Forums like the Youth IGF offer an exceptional opportunity to encourage engagement from young, innovative minds. Young people need to be involved more in the work of organisations like RIPE NCC to gain practical experience and skills for their future professional development. With such an approach, the tech industry could become even more collaborative and inclusive in the years to come.
