[db-wg] ASN32 deployment

[Apologies for duplicate e-mails]


Dear colleagues,

This morning, between 07:00 and 09:00 (UTC), we deployed new
software for the RIPE Database. Three changes were made:

1. The new software allows the creation of 32-bit (4-byte)
Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs). There is more information about this
in the references at the end of this e-mail.

2. The ORGANISATION object type NON-REGISTRY has been changed
to OTHER. The RIPE NCC modified all existing organisation objects which
had the old type. There is more information about this at:

http://www.ripe.net/ripe/maillists/archives/db-wg/2006/msg00245.html

3. We reversed changes made to the status of ERX objects. While 
implementing the ASSIGNED ANYCAST status, other changes were made. This 
prevented more specific assignments from being created within EARLY
REGISTRATION ranges. These changes have been rolled back.

If you have any questions about any of these changes, send an e-mail to
<ripe-dbm at ripe.net>.

Regards

Denis Walker
Database Group
RIPE NCC


--------

References:

The new 32-bit ASN format is described in these documents:

http://www.ietf.org/internet-drafts/draft-michaelson-4byte-as-representation-02.txt

http://www.ietf.org/internet-drafts/draft-uijterwaal-rpsl-4byteas-ext-01.txt

Sites using the RIPE Database software will probably have to upgrade
their systems. See:

http://www.ripe.net/news/asn-db-update.html

Our test database (e-mail to <test-dbm at ripe.net> or access through webupdates) also
now handles the new AS number format.