Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: OTN CDP RADIUS

BGP

Term from Network Services industry explained for recruiters

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is like a postal system for the internet - it's how different networks share information about the best paths to send data between them. When companies mention BGP in job descriptions, they're looking for people who can help manage how their network connects to other networks, including internet service providers. This is especially important for large organizations that need reliable internet connections. Think of it as being the traffic controller for internet data, making sure information takes the best possible route. Similar terms you might see include "routing protocols" or "internet routing."

Examples in Resumes

Configured and managed BGP connections with multiple internet service providers

Troubleshooted Border Gateway Protocol routing issues in enterprise networks

Implemented BGP failover solutions to ensure network reliability

Typical job title: "Network Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Network Engineer Network Administrator Network Architect Infrastructure Engineer Systems Engineer Network Operations Engineer Internet Service Provider Engineer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you design a network with redundant BGP connections?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain how to set up multiple internet connections for backup purposes, like having two or more internet providers to ensure the network stays online if one connection fails.

Q: How would you handle a situation where BGP routes are flapping?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how to identify and fix unstable network connections, including checking for hardware issues, implementing route dampening, and working with internet service providers to resolve the problem.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What BGP attributes would you use to influence route selection?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how to control which network paths are preferred when multiple options are available, using simple terms and real-world examples.

Q: How do you secure BGP connections?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic security measures like password authentication between networks and filtering unauthorized route announcements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is BGP and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that BGP is how networks communicate with each other to share information about the best paths for sending data across the internet.

Q: What is the difference between iBGP and eBGP?

Expected Answer: Should explain that iBGP is used within an organization's network, while eBGP is used to communicate with other organizations' networks.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of BGP concepts
  • Ability to monitor BGP sessions
  • Basic network troubleshooting
  • Understanding of IP addressing

Mid (2-5 years)

  • BGP configuration and maintenance
  • Route filtering and policy implementation
  • Multi-homing setup and management
  • Network monitoring and troubleshooting

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced BGP design and implementation
  • Network security and optimization
  • Disaster recovery planning
  • Team leadership and project management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic networking concepts
  • Lack of hands-on experience with routers
  • No knowledge of IP addressing and subnetting
  • Unable to explain basic BGP concepts in simple terms

Related Terms