How can I optimize BGP convergence time in a large network?

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How can I optimize BGP convergence time in a large network?

Asked on Dec 11, 2025

Answer

Optimizing BGP convergence time in a large network involves tuning protocol parameters and network design to ensure rapid route propagation and stability. This can be achieved by adjusting timers, leveraging route reflectors, and optimizing path selection.

Example Concept: BGP convergence time can be optimized by reducing the BGP Keepalive and Hold timers to speed up the detection of downed peers, implementing BGP route reflectors to reduce the number of BGP sessions, and using BGP Fast Reroute (FRR) to quickly switch to backup paths. Additionally, enabling BGP Graceful Restart can help maintain session continuity during planned maintenance, while tweaking the BGP Best Path Selection algorithm can prioritize faster paths.

Additional Comment:

Consider using BGP Add-Paths to advertise multiple paths for the same prefix, improving path diversity.
Implement BFD (Bidirectional Forwarding Detection) to quickly detect link failures.
Regularly monitor and analyze BGP updates to identify and address convergence issues.
Ensure that route policies are optimized to prevent unnecessary path recalculations.

✅ Answered with Networking best practices.

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