Joe,

On May 16, 2012, at 8:33 AM, Joe Abley wrote:
> Right now we have a root server system that is measurable,

While I would agree that it would be more measurable, I'm not convinced that it 
actually is more measured.  

> Ad-hoc distribution of root zone operation to an unbounded set of operators 
> would result in a system that was much more challenging to measure, that was 
> operated by people whose focus was (properly) elsewhere, and with whom 
> reliable communication was probably not possible.

Ignoring the fact that anyone can set themselves up as a root zone operator 
now, I believe there are more options than either 12 XOR infinity.  For 
example, one could imagine a subscription-type of system where in order to 
"join the club" and get a TSIG key to a particular server or (say) NOTIFYs of 
zone updates, you have to agree to share name server stats, agree to have a 
24x7 contact, etc.  Other models are, of course, feasible.

> I am generally in favour of decentralisation, but in this specific instance I 
> can't see much benefit to offset the deficiencies.

Let's spell this out.  Benefits I see: 
- increased resilience to DoS attack
- reduced dependence on a single point (ok, 13 points) of failure
- potentially improved performance
- greater autonomy
- reduced political whinage about not having a root server
- greater openness and transparency

Deficiencies I see: 
- reduced opportunities of control (could be argued to be a benefit)
- reduction in theoretical measurement points
- potentially reduce performance if a mirror is operated poorly

What are the benefits and deficiencies you see?

Regards,
-drc

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