[ax25-layer2] IP Routing

[Robert Bruninga]

>>> pete at ae5pl.net 09/19/05 11:44 PM >>>
>For instance, the NSR UI algorithm supports 
>(and improves the performance of) APRS.

That is the #1 problem I have with NSR, in that

1) Yes, it improves performance when "performance"
is defined by the sysop as "your packets can only
go here"...

2) It totally breaks "performance" when the SYSOP 
is not around to make instantaneous real-time
tweaks in the presence of urgent changing, real-time 
situations.

3) It totally breaks "performance" when the originator's
immdeiate communication need is to get to a point
not previously defined by the SYSOP.

Now, I have no problem with someone choosing
to use NSR, by choosing the path "VIA NSR" and
letting the all-knowing-all-seeing SYSOP decide
where his packets can go, but I strongly object
if then the ability to use a path of VIA DIGI1,DIGI2
is not then allowed in the protocol.

Notice I said "in the protocol".  It is the SYSOPS 
choice to disable point-to-point for his users 
(let them fight it out),  but to go about with the 
intent to break AX.25 to make it impossible for 
the end user to determine his path under certain
conditions, I will have serious issues with.

de WB4APR, Bob

>yet it does not support digipeater usage as a layer
>3 router.   This is why a layer 2 RF architecture 
>that is a known quantity is so important to reliable 
>and transparent operation of higher levels, just
>like the Ethernet architecture is a known quantity...

Yes, as long as a SYSOP is always available to always
re-configure the rules of the network each time someone
new turns on a radio...   Ham radio on RF in some areas
can be legislated to do what you want, but in many 
cases, such do-it-this-way appraoches fail due to lack
of responsiveness of the sysops and render the network
useless in some cases...

It is inate in the HAM spirit to want to have control over
where their communications go.  In some cases, the
NSR approach is like giving a HAM a microphone and
saying " here, talk.  We will make sure you can talk
to someone and try to get your message to the 
right person.. trust us..."...

If the objective is to set up a PHONE system, yes that
is the right approach.   If the objective of NSR is to
set up a stable digital infrasctructure, I have no
problem with that either, but it must allow for
exceptional use in the protocol if not in the individual
implementation too...

Bob, WB4APR