Hello!
I’m Sudarshan, a software developer at NetApp.I have been using Bird as a peer for testing BGP functionality of NetApp’s Ontap software stack. Thanks to the Bird community!I looked at Bird’s BFD implementation. Was wondering if it is even plausible to extract only the BFD functionality out of Birdand use it with our existing BGP implementation. I see that BFD is tightly integrated with Bird’s core software libraries andso it doesn’t look like a trivial lift and shift. That said, I wanted to check with this group to see if there is a way to do it.
Well, you're completely right about the lifting and shifting. Anyway, there is always a possibility to find a way unless you prove there is no way at all.
I can see several possibilities:(1) use BIRD as a whole, preferably while also negotiating a contract with CZ.NIC; you'll help us make BIRD better for all and we'll help you fitting it nice into your setup
(2) write a layer between your internal API and our API, which is, I suppose, both undocumented on this level, and pray a lot to whichever deity you believe in
(3) order a truckload of biscuits and coffee and try to convert our BFD implementation to your core
(4) write BFD yourself from scratch(5) run BIRD separately with BFD only and write a custom bridge to your BGP implementation
In cases 2 and 3 (and possibly also 1 and 5), as Laurent Guerby has noted, you should consult your company lawyers whether your project is compatible with the GPL.
I'm truly curious what way you choose. Honestly, I think the right way is "the commercial way" as you're selling your software stack as a whole. Yes, I'm greedy. I'd love also to extend our development team and keep making BIRD better, faster and more stable.
Anyway, thank you for asking such a bold question. I hope I've helped you at least a bit. Last but not least, I'm looking forward to the future contract and collaboration.
Best Regards, Maria
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