Project Overview
This comprehensive project aimed to address critical gaps in infrastructure and human capacity within emerging National Research and Education Networks (NRENs) across South and Southeast Asia. Led by the Lanka Education and Research Network (LEARN), the initiative focused on IPv6 deployment, DNS/DNSSEC implementation, and network performance monitoring practices.
🦠 COVID-19 Adaptation Success
The pandemic required a rapid shift to virtual formats, which significantly expanded participation and encouraged deeper regional collaboration across multiple countries.
Core Technologies & Infrastructure
🌐 IPv6 Deployment
Next-generation Internet protocol implementation with OSPF and BGP routing, transition planning, and deployment strategies for academic networks.
🔒 DNS/DNSSEC
Domain Name System Security Extensions with recursive and authoritative configurations, signing, validation, and key rollover procedures.
📊 Network Monitoring
SNMP and Netflow-based performance monitoring, security hardening, and vulnerability assessment techniques for NREN infrastructure.
🖥️ Infrastructure Procurement
Virtualization servers and conferencing equipment for Bhutan, Laos, and Sri Lanka to support local labs and remote collaboration.
Workshop Timeline & Activities
Workshop 1: IPv6 Deployment
Conducted in Laos with 18 participants from 6 countries. Hands-on training on IPv6 protocol, routing, and deployment strategies. Bhutan and Laos completed partial IPv6 deployments.
Workshop 2: Network Security & Monitoring
Online workshop for 48 participants focusing on SNMP, Netflow, security hardening, and vulnerability assessment. Participants developed tailored security protocols.
Workshop 3: DNS/DNSSEC
Virtual training with 48 participants across 8 countries covering DNS fundamentals, DNSSEC signing, validation, and key rollover using APNIC's lab infrastructure.
Follow-up & Local Workshops
Hybrid follow-up activities, peer-led sessions, IT policy development, and in-country workshops hosted by Bhutan and Laos for their academic communities.
Key Outcomes & Achievements
🚀 Technical Deployments
- IPv6 Implementation: Successfully deployed in Bhutan and Laos with configuration and testing completed
- DNSSEC Operations: Configurations operational in multiple beneficiary countries post-training
- Infrastructure Enhancement: Virtualization tools and video kits deployed for future training capabilities
- Policy Development: IT policy templates created and shared among NRENs for internal adaptation
👥 Capacity Building Success
100+ Engineers Trained: Including 26 women who received comprehensive hands-on and virtual instruction across three major technology domains.
Knowledge Transfer: Extended local impact through knowledge transfer sessions replicated across 7 countries with peer mentoring networks established.
Cross-country Collaboration: Enhanced regional cooperation through collective problem-solving and ongoing technical support mechanisms.
Partner Organizations & Countries
LEARN
Lanka Education and Research Network
Lead Organization - Sri Lanka
RUB
Royal University of Bhutan
LERNET
Lao Education and Research Network
APNIC
Asia Pacific Network Information Centre
NUOL
National University of Laos
Beneficiary Countries
Challenges & Future Directions
⚠️ Project Challenges
- COVID-19 Disruption: Required rapid pivot from in-person to virtual formats
- Infrastructure Delays: Server import delays in Sri Lanka due to customs clearance issues
- Political Instability: Afghanistan participation affected by political changes
- Technical Limitations: DNSSEC not supported by some local ISPs in certain regions
🔮 Future Initiatives
Mentorship Programs: Continue skill-sharing through online networks and peer support systems.
Local Trainer Development: Empower alumni to lead future training within their respective countries and institutions.
Advanced Modules: Expand topics to include identity access management, cloud security, and advanced automation.
Policy Advocacy: Promote adoption of DNSSEC and security best practices at institutional and national levels.
Sustainable Development Goals
This infrastructure development project significantly contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals: