# Justin Wilson (j2sw) Packets DownRange This is one page of public article previews, not the complete archive. Follow Next page to continue. Summaries are not the original full articles. ## Forensic Walkthrough of a Compromised MikroTik Router and Its Persistence Mechanisms DevFeed: [Forensic Walkthrough of a Compromised MikroTik Router and Its Persistence Mechanisms]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-09-16T13:32:46Z Content type: article Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [MikroTik](), [Vulnerabilities](), [Persistence](), [remote access](), [backdoor](), [ssh]() Tags: [backdoor](), [cybersecurity](), [firmware](), [forensics](), [incident-response](), [mikortrick](), [mikrotik](), [network-operations](), [network-security](), [persistence](), [remote-access](), [security](), [ssh](), [vulnerabilities]() ### AI overview A forensic walkthrough examines a compromised MikroTik router in a honeypot. The intruders established persistence and remote access through scheduled tasks, scripts, new users, and tunnels. The author suspects, but cannot prove, that the compromise involved the MikroTrick RouterOS vulnerability chain. ### Source excerpt What it looks like when an intruder tries to make your own router work against you. A note before we start: Anything in this post that could identify my network, my organization, or my router's real hostname and IP address has been redacted or made generic. The attacker's own infrastructure, such as IP addresses, ports, ... Read more The post A first-hand forensic walkthrough of a real router compromise appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## What N, N+1, 2N, and 2(N+1) Mean in a Data Center DevFeed: [What N, N+1, 2N, and 2(N+1) Mean in a Data Center]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-27T13:59:08Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [datacenter](), [data]() Tags: [2n-redundancy](), [capacity](), [colocation](), [components](), [cooling](), [data-center](), [data-center-power](), [equipment](), [internet-architecture](), [maintenance](), [n-plus-1-redundancy](), [network-operations](), [power-distribution](), [system](), [ups]() ### AI overview This article explains what data center redundancy ratings N, N+1, N+2, 2N, and 2(N+1) indicate about component capacity, failures, maintenance, cooling, and alternate paths. ### Source excerpt Have you ever looked at a data center marketing slick and wondered what N, N+1, 2N, and 2(N+1) actually mean? The main thing they tell you is how many components can fail before the system drops below the capacity needed to support the load. When I evaluate a data center, I want to know what ... Read more The post What N, N+1, 2N, and 2(N+1) Mean in a Data Center appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## LibreQoS 2.2 is out DevFeed: [LibreQoS 2.2 is out]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-20T15:11:31Z Content type: release Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [changelog](), [Network](), [service](), [browser](), [interface](), [sessions](), [API]() Tags: [2-2](), [api](), [browser](), [changelog](), [improvements](), [interface](), [libreqos](), [network](), [network-engineering-resources](), [service](), [sessions]() ### AI overview This changelog describes LibreQoS 2.2, released on August 18, 2026, and its changes since version 2.1. It covers browser-based installation and setup, visual topology building, subscriber shaping from RADIUS sessions, traffic comparisons, and related improvements to LibreQoS Insight and the paid LibreQoS API. ### Source excerpt LibreQoS 2.2 ChangeLog LibreQoS 2.2: What Changed Since 2.1 LibreQoS 2.2 guides operators from a fresh install through admin creation, interface selection, network preview, and service startup in the browser. Operators can build topology visually, shape subscribers created from RADIUS sessions, and compare queued demand with traffic that actually crossed the wire. This changelog covers ... Read more The post LibreQoS 2.2 is out appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Multi-Core Fiber: Several Optical Cores Inside One Strand DevFeed: [Multi-Core Fiber: Several Optical Cores Inside One Strand]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-18T13:39:00Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Hardware](), [Networks](), [interface]() Tags: [400g](), [cabling](), [channel](), [connectors](), [data-center](), [fiber](), [fiber-optics](), [internet-architecture](), [multi-core-fiber](), [network-engineering-resources](), [networks](), [optical-networking](), [optics](), [space-division-multiplexing](), [transmission]() ### AI overview This article explains how multi-core fiber places several optical cores inside one standard 125-micron cladding. It distinguishes MCF from high-fiber-count cable, describes aggregate capacity using separate channels and space-division multiplexing, and explains the need for specialized optical interfaces, connectors, splicing, and testing. ### Source excerpt Multi-core fiber places several independent optical cores inside one standard 125-micron cladding. It increases channel density, but it also requires different connectors, splicing methods, and testing procedures. The post Multi-Core Fiber: Several Optical Cores Inside One Strand appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Alta Labs AP7 Pro: Quick Look and First Impressions DevFeed: [Alta Labs AP7 Pro: Quick Look and First Impressions]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-14T16:57:37Z Content type: article Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Quick Look](), [Hardware](), [Wi-Fi]() Tags: [access-point](), [alta-labs](), [ap7-pro](), [equipment](), [hardware](), [look](), [network-engineering-resources](), [networking](), [wi-fi](), [wifi](), [wireless]() ### AI overview A video provides a quick look at the Alta Labs AP7 Pro access point, showing its hardware and offering initial impressions. It is not a full review or performance test; follow-up testing is planned after installation and real traffic use. ### Source excerpt I am getting back to recording some videos, and this time I am taking a quick look at the Alta Labs AP7 Pro. This is not meant to be a full review or performance test. I wanted to get the AP7 Pro on camera, show the hardware, and give everyone a closer look at the ... Read more The post Alta Labs AP7 Pro: Quick Look and First Impressions appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Packets Down Range #42:Verizon, H5 tour, China ROAs DevFeed: [Packets Down Range #42:Verizon, H5 tour, China ROAs]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-14T16:12:36Z Content type: news Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [datacenter](), [networking](), [Routing Security](), [.env]() Tags: [bead](), [bgp](), [broadband](), [china](), [data-center](), [fiber](), [internet2](), [isp](), [news](), [packets-down-newsletter](), [packets-down-range](), [peering](), [roa](), [routing-security](), [terminal](), [verizon]() ### AI overview This English news roundup covers interconnection and data center topics, including H5's 325 Hudson, the value of peering beyond transit-cost savings, OpenAI's reported plan, routing visibility for Internet2 traffic, broadband developments in Texas and Indiana, Verizon fiber expansion, China's use of ROAS, and related tools and sites. ### Source excerpt Rain Rain Rain. Indiana has been rained on this week. Things are flooded but the Internet still works! So fire up your terminal, and let's head down range. Patreon Subscribers can view additional news here. It's only $3 a month. It's like buying me a Red Bull once a month. Interconnection & Data Center News-Inside ... Read more The post Packets Down Range #42:Verizon, H5 tour, China ROAs appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Multi-Core Fiber and How It Is Used in Data Centers DevFeed: [Multi-Core Fiber and How It Is Used in Data Centers]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-12T14:27:20Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [data centers](), [datacenter]() Tags: [400g](), [cabling](), [connectors](), [data-center](), [data-centers](), [fiber](), [fiber-optics](), [it-operations](), [mpo](), [mtp](), [multi-core-fiber](), [network-engineering-resources](), [optics](), [panel](), [parallel](), [single-mode](), [structured-cabling]() ### AI overview This article explains how "multi-core fiber" is used in data center discussions, distinguishing multi-fiber or high-fiber-count cables from true multicore fiber. It covers cable construction, fiber counts, single-mode and multimode options, and MPO and MTP connectors. ### Source excerpt If you work around data centers and high-density builds, you have probably heard the term "Multi-Core Fiber" thrown around. People use it in a few different ways. Sometimes, it means a new fiber trunk that comes into a cabinet as a single cable and breaks out into dozens or even hundreds of fibers. That setup ... Read more The post Multi-Core Fiber and How It Is Used in Data Centers appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Using Cisco Prefix Lists Inside Route Maps for BGP Filtering DevFeed: [Using Cisco Prefix Lists Inside Route Maps for BGP Filtering]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-11T14:48:44Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [BGP](), [Cisco](), [Network]() Tags: [bgp](), [bgp-filtering](), [cisco](), [internet-architecture](), [network-engineering](), [network-engineering-resources](), [prefix-lists](), [route-maps](), [routing-policy]() ### AI overview This tutorial explains how Cisco prefix lists and route maps work together for BGP filtering. Prefix lists define which routes match, while route maps apply actions such as permitting, denying, or modifying route attributes. It also describes route-map sequence order and implicit deny behavior. ### Source excerpt Prefix lists define which BGP routes match a policy. Route maps use those matches to permit routes, deny them, or change attributes such as local preference. The post Using Cisco Prefix Lists Inside Route Maps for BGP Filtering appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Alta labs: AP7-Pro 3.0i and AP6 2.4j Released DevFeed: [Alta labs: AP7-Pro 3.0i and AP6 2.4j Released]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-08T02:41:16Z Content type: release Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [releases](), [Release notes]() Tags: [alta](), [alta-labs](), [ap7-pro](), [compatibility](), [devices](), [firmware](), [identity](), [mesh](), [nas](), [network-engineering-resources](), [release](), [release-notes](), [reporting](), [system](), [wireless]() ### AI overview Alta Labs released AP7-Pro version 3.0i and AP6 version 2.4j. The updates improve WPA3 transition-mode compatibility, add NAS-IP-Address to RADIUS frames, address mesh and 802.1x identity reporting issues, and improve AP7-Pro system stability. ### Source excerpt https://forum.alta.inc/c/release-notes/13 The post Alta labs: AP7-Pro 3.0i and AP6 2.4j Released appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Troubleshooting Tarana Wireless Customer Connections DevFeed: [Troubleshooting Tarana Wireless Customer Connections]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-08-04T18:18:31Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Network]() Tags: [access-point](), [isp](), [latency](), [network-operations](), [network-troubleshooting](), [rf](), [rf-troubleshooting](), [signal](), [tarana](), [transmission](), [troubleshooting](), [wireless](), [wireless-networking](), [wisp]() ### AI overview This troubleshooting guide explains why a single metric cannot establish the health of a Tarana wireless customer connection. It recommends evaluating RSSI, SNR, modulation rate, retransmissions, latency, sector utilization, and trends together to identify signal limitations, interference, changing RF conditions, and their effects on throughput. ### Source excerpt Troubleshooting Tarana wireless customer connections means looking at RSSI, SNR, modulation, retransmissions, latency, sector utilization, and trends together. The post Troubleshooting Tarana Wireless Customer Connections appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## The Third App from J2sw: Prefix Advertisement Checker DevFeed: [The Third App from J2sw: Prefix Advertisement Checker]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-31T12:17:00Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [BGP](), [networking](), [App](), [Cisco](), [MikroTik]() Tags: [application](), [bgp](), [irr](), [j2-networks](), [j2-updates](), [network-engineering-resources](), [network-tools](), [network-troubleshooting](), [prefix-advertisement](), [ripe-ris](), [roa](), [routing](), [routing-policy](), [rpki](), [visibility]() ### AI overview This article describes the J2SW Prefix Advertisement Checker, an application that evaluates an exact IPv4 or IPv6 prefix using live BGP data. It reports observed origin ASNs from RIPE RIS collectors, collector visibility, RPKI/ROA status, and matching IRR route objects, with an optional expected origin ASN for comparison. ### Source excerpt A prefix can appear in the global BGP table and still have a routing problem. The route may originate from the wrong ASN. Its ROA may also authorize a shorter prefix but reject the advertised prefix length. Checking each part normally means pulling data from several routing tools. The J2SW Prefix Advertisement Checker, my 3rd ... Read more The post The Third App from J2sw: Prefix Advertisement Checker appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Introducing the J2SW BGP Community Builder DevFeed: [Introducing the J2SW BGP Community Builder]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-29T18:30:21Z Content type: release Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [BGP](), [networking](), [Routing (disambiguation)](), [configuration]() Tags: [aws-direct-connect](), [bgp](), [bgp-communities](), [builder](), [cisco](), [cogent](), [frrouting](), [hurricane-electric](), [juniper](), [mikrotik](), [network-engineering-resources](), [ntt](), [routing-policy]() ### AI overview The J2SW BGP Community Builder helps users select documented provider communities and routing actions, then generates scoped configuration fragments. It includes RFC well-known communities and policies from AWS Direct Connect, NTT DATA, Hurricane Electric, and Cogent Communications, with support for MikroTik RouterOS 7, Cisco IOS-XE, Juniper Junos, and FRRouting. ### Source excerpt The J2SW BGP Community Builder selects documented provider communities and generates scoped policy fragments for MikroTik, Cisco, Junos, and FRRouting. The post Introducing the J2SW BGP Community Builder appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## My Plan for an All-Alta Labs Home Network DevFeed: [My Plan for an All-Alta Labs Home Network]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-29T14:40:00Z Content type: opinion Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Network](), [Firewall](), [Hardware](), [Wi-Fi](), [Internet](), [DHCP]() Tags: [access-points](), [alta-labs](), [altapass](), [deployment](), [dhcp](), [firewall](), [hardware](), [home-networking](), [internet](), [network](), [network-engineering-resources](), [network-switches](), [poe](), [reviews](), [route10](), [technology-industry-commentary](), [vlans](), [wi-fi]() ### AI overview Justin Wilson outlines a planned Alta Labs home network using the Route10 router, PoE switches, and strategically placed access points. The article compares hardware options for different home sizes, device counts, uplink speeds, and coverage needs. ### Source excerpt Being in the ISP world I see the home router and network cause a majority of the problems blamed on the ISP. Most home networks put the router, switch, firewall, and Wi-Fi radios into one do-it-all box. This can be underpowered in terms of both processing power and Wi-Fi signal strength. In this post, I ... Read more The post My Plan for an All-Alta Labs Home Network appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Mikrotik Winbox 4.3 is out DevFeed: [Mikrotik Winbox 4.3 is out]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-29T14:38:07Z Content type: release Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [MikroTik](), [Windows](), [Zip](), [GUI](), [layout]() Tags: [2026](), [feature](), [file](), [form](), [input](), [layout](), [mikrotik](), [network-engineering-resources](), [performance](), [redesign](), [render](), [right](), [sorting](), [table](), [toolbar](), [ui](), [v3](), [version](), [widget](), [winbox](), [windows](), [zip]() ### AI overview MikroTik WinBox 4.3 is a release update that adds a Windows ARM64 package and introduces or improves table, form, toolbar, settings, font, login, window-selection, layout, and scrolling behavior. ### Source excerpt What's new in 4.3 (2026-Jul-20 10:14): *) app: add Windows for arm64 version in file WinBox_Windows_arm64.zip;*) form: make multiline input field height logic as in WinBox v3;*) table: add quick comment feature (allow multi-row commenting);*) table: allow opening "Table settings" also via right mouse click;*) table: calculate implicit height to fit 16 regular rows including ... Read more The post Mikrotik Winbox 4.3 is out appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Introducing the J2sw MTU and Encapsulation Calculator DevFeed: [Introducing the J2sw MTU and Encapsulation Calculator]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-28T16:37:53Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Network](), [Tool](), [Ethernet](), [VXLAN]() Tags: [calculator](), [cisco](), [ethernet](), [fragmentation](), [gre](), [headers](), [ipsec](), [ipv4](), [ipv6](), [juniper](), [mikrotik](), [mpls](), [mtu](), [network-engineering-resources](), [network-tools](), [network-troubleshooting](), [overhead](), [payload](), [pppoe](), [vlan](), [vxlan]() ### AI overview The article introduces the J2SW MTU and Encapsulation Calculator, which estimates inner IP MTU and required underlay MTU for combinations of PPPoE, GRE, VLAN, MPLS, VXLAN, and other encapsulations. It explains how Layer 2 tags affect Ethernet frame size separately from IP MTU and describes overhead calculations, including cases where fragmentation can be avoided. ### Source excerpt Ever wondered what the effects of different combinations of PPPoE, GRE, and others have on the MTU of a packet? I am excited to announce the first of many J2 Network tools: the J2SW MTU and Encapsulation Calculator. You select the service MTU and the encapsulation used on the path. The calculator then works out ... Read more The post Introducing the J2sw MTU and Encapsulation Calculator appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Why Your Traffic Didn't go the way you expected DevFeed: [Why Your Traffic Didn't go the way you expected]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-28T15:16:02Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [BGP](), [Routing (disambiguation)](), [networking]() Tags: [bgp](), [fd-ix](), [network-engineering](), [network-operations](), [networking](), [peering](), [routing](), [routing-table](), [transit]() ### AI overview This troubleshooting article explains why traffic may not use an expected peering path even when a BGP session is established. It focuses on routing-table selection, Local Preference, BGP policy, and the possibility that return traffic follows a different path. ### Source excerpt 3 Mintue read timeJustin Wilson PacketsDownRange A common problem I run into when diagnosing route issues is traffic not going across the path it's supposed to. An established BGP session only means the routers successfully exchanged routes. It says nothing about which route your router actually installed in the forwarding table. Let's get into some ... Read more The post Why Your Traffic Didn't go the way you expected appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Understanding BGP Route Types: Full Routes vs Partial vs Default vs Customer Routes DevFeed: [Understanding BGP Route Types: Full Routes vs Partial vs Default vs Customer Routes]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-24T16:28:00Z Content type: article Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [BGP](), [networking](), [Routing (disambiguation)](), [Internet](), [gateway](), [Networks]() Tags: [bgp](), [cpu](), [flexibility](), [internet-architecture](), [isp](), [memory](), [network-engineering](), [network-operations](), [route](), [router](), [routing](), [routing-policy](), [routing-table](), [traffic-engineering](), [visibility]() ### AI overview This article explains BGP route choices, comparing default routes, full routes, partial routes, and customer routes. It describes the tradeoffs between small routing tables, Internet visibility, traffic engineering control, and router resource requirements. ### Source excerpt 5 minute read time.Justin Wilson j2sw.com When you configure a BGP session, one of the first questions is what routes you actually want to receive. If you have ever filled out a questionnaire with Hurricane Electric or another transit provider, they ask you what "kind" of routes you want. In this article, I plan to ... Read more The post Understanding BGP Route Types: Full Routes vs Partial vs Default vs Customer Routes appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## What Is IPoE? DevFeed: [What Is IPoE?]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-24T12:15:00Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [DHCP](), [Ethernet](), [Networks](), [Protocol (disambiguation)](), [gateway]() Tags: [broadband](), [dhcp](), [dns](), [ethernet](), [ipoe](), [mtu](), [network-operations](), [pppoe](), [router](), [vlan]() ### AI overview This article explains IPoE, or IP over Ethernet, as an access model in which a customer router uses DHCP to obtain an IP address and network configuration directly, without establishing a PPPoE session or storing login credentials. It describes DHCP relay and Broadband Network Gateway processing and outlines subscriber-identification methods such as VLANs, access ports, DHCP Option 82, circuit identifiers, ONT details, and MAC authentication. ### Source excerpt 4 minutes read time.Many of us ISP veterans are familiar with Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE), also referred to as Triple P O E. PPPoE is showing its age. It showed its age 15 years ago. DHCP was the simple fix for modern networks. It had less overhead and was simple. Now along comes IPoE. ... Read more The post What Is IPoE? appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Wallys Gas Station Pumps and Payment Security DevFeed: [Wallys Gas Station Pumps and Payment Security]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-24T04:15:24Z Content type: opinion Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Security](), [End-to-End Encryption](), [Encryption](), [Hardware]() Tags: [e2ee](), [encryption](), [gas-pump](), [gas-stations](), [hardware](), [payment-processing](), [security](), [technology-industry-commentary]() ### AI overview A brief examination of the technology and payment security of new Wawa gas pumps in Whitestown, Indiana. The article speculates that the pumps may use customized Windows CE IoT Core or Linux and describes a separate payment-reader hardware stack using end-to-end encryption. ### Source excerpt Indiana, specifically Whitestown, has a new WaWa gas station. They have these bright new gas pumps. Of course, I had to know more about the technology behind them. This is most likely using a highly customized Windows CE iOT core or a linux kernel. I am betting Windows. Security on the PumpsThis security framework is ... Read more The post Wallys Gas station Pumps appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## What Really Motivates tech Employees? DevFeed: [What Really Motivates tech Employees?]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-23T13:54:00Z Content type: opinion Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Job](), [Learning]() Tags: [100percent-human](), [employees](), [go](), [money](), [motivation](), [non-ai](), [tech-worker](), [technology-industry-commentary](), [work]() ### AI overview The article argues that employees are motivated by different factors, including promotion, predictable schedules, challenging work, stable income, compensation, personal time, flexibility, and opportunities to learn. It suggests that managers should understand individual motivations rather than assume everyone values the same incentives. ### Source excerpt It's time to take a break from all the technical posts and get down to human basics. This is a nice break from the fun, but sometimes dry, technical mumbo jumbo I spout off here. I have worked with enough people over the years to realize that there is no single reason people come to ... Read more The post What Really Motivates tech Employees? appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## What Is an AAU in Cellular Networks? DevFeed: [What Is an AAU in Cellular Networks?]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-22T19:23:00Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Networks](), [5G](), [Hardware]() Tags: [5g](), [aau](), [cellular](), [fiber](), [hardware](), [installation](), [lte](), [massive-mimo](), [networks](), [signal](), [telecommunicationds](), [tower](), [wireless-infrastructure](), [wireless-networking]() ### AI overview This article explains Active Antenna Units (AAUs) in cellular networks. It describes how AAUs integrate antennas and radio components, use fiber and power instead of long coaxial runs, reduce RF loss, and support technologies such as Massive MIMO. It also discusses installation considerations, including greater weight and higher hardware cost. ### Source excerpt A little off the beaten path on this one. We are diving into a big part of a Cellular tower deployment. Many sites now use an Active Antenna Unit, or AAU. The radio and the antenna are built into the same enclosure. An AAU combines the antenna, radio transceivers, power amplifiers, and low-noise amplifiers into ... Read more The post What Is an AAU in Cellular Networks? appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## How Passive Optical Networks (PON) Work DevFeed: [How Passive Optical Networks (PON) Work]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-22T12:35:00Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Networks](), [gpon](), [Internet](), [Ethernet](), [gateway](), [Security](), [Deployment]() Tags: [ethernet](), [fiber](), [ftth](), [gateway](), [gpon](), [internet](), [internet-architecture](), [isp](), [networks](), [passive-optical-network](), [pon](), [providers](), [provisioning](), [router](), [security](), [xgs-pon]() ### AI overview This tutorial explains how Passive Optical Networks (PON) deliver residential fiber Internet. It describes the roles of the OLT, passive optical splitters, ONTs, and the customer router or gateway, including how providers share feeder fiber among subscribers and provision authorized ONTs. ### Source excerpt If you've spent any time looking into fiber Internet, you've probably run across terms like GPON, XGS-PON, OLT, and ONT. These are all parts of what's called a Passive Optical Network, or PON. Most residential fiber providers use PON because it lets them connect alot of homes without having to pull a separate fiber from ... Read more The post How Passive Optical Networks (PON) Work appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Useful Python Libraries Every Network Engineer Should Know DevFeed: [Useful Python Libraries Every Network Engineer Should Know]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-21T12:35:00Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Python](), [Library](), [networking](), [Code]() Tags: [apis](), [automation](), [bgp](), [cisco](), [code](), [devops](), [firewalls](), [library](), [netops](), [network](), [network-engineering](), [network-operations](), [python](), [python-libraries]() ### AI overview This article introduces Python libraries for network engineering, explaining how they support device connections, API interactions, automation, configuration backups, audits, and reports. It discusses Netmiko, NAPALM, Nornir, Paramiko, and Requests. ### Source excerpt A Python script usually spends very little time doing actual Python work. Most of the actual work comes from libraries that know how to connect to network devices and do the work. They interact with APIs. Once you understand what each library does, you can spend less time writing code and more time solving network ... Read more The post Useful Python Libraries Every Network Engineer Should Know appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). ## Python Automation Script Ideas for Network Engineers DevFeed: [Python Automation Script Ideas for Network Engineers]() Original publisher: [Read original article]() Author: j2sw Published: 2026-07-20T20:33:48Z Content type: tutorial Language: en Sources: [Justin Wilson (j2sw)]() Topics: [Python](), [networking](), [Automation](), [BGP]() Tags: [automation](), [devops](), [network](), [network-operations](), [python](), [scripts]() ### AI overview This tutorial presents Python automation script ideas for network engineers. It covers running commands across devices, scanning configurations, generating inventory reports, monitoring optical power, and verifying BGP sessions. ### Source excerpt Python has become one of the most valuable tools in a network engineer's toolbox. You do not need to write thousands of lines of code or become a software developer to get value from it. If you are kind of old school like me, anything other than bash scripting might be new. In this article, ... Read more The post Python Scripts Every Network Engineer Should Know appeared first on Justin Wilson (j2sw). [Next page]()