mnNOG 7: Growing Mongolia’s Internet Infrastructure Through Community Collaboration

From its beginnings as a casual gathering in Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolia Network Operators Group (mnNOG) has steadily evolved into a highly influential community committed to the development of Mongolia’s Internet infrastructure and operational standards. The recently concluded mnNOG 7, held from September 29 to October 3, 2025, demonstrated how far this community has come, showcasing remarkable engagement, collaboration, and technical growth.

A Vibrant Event in an Idyllic Setting

mnNOG 7 took place at the Glory Resort in Terelj, a scenic venue that welcomed over 190 participants. The event featured a dynamic agenda of technical sessions, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops. The opening plenary set the stage by addressing key issues facing the industry, including AI’s role in modern network operations. Notable speakers like Unitel’s Ganbold Ravjin and Hervey Allen of NSRC highlighted topics ranging from navigating the post-pandemic era to the transformative power of AI and large language models. These discussions emphasized the evolving technological landscape and how Mongolian professionals are equipping themselves to adapt.

A standout component of the event was the hands-on workshops. APNIC trainers conducted a Segment Routing Workshop, providing immediate practical value to 23 attendees. The collaborative atmosphere encouraged participants to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, underlining mnNOG’s commitment to skill development and professional growth.

Tackling Regulatory Challenges and Infrastructure Gaps

One of the key highlights of mnNOG 7 was a panel discussion on fiber optic infrastructure in Ulaanbaatar, where industry experts from the Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC), Netcom, and major telcos like Mobinet and Univision debated pressing regulatory and operational challenges. Topics included the stalled expansion of cable ducts and the need for streamlined government regulations to facilitate growth. These discussions underscored the importance of coordinated action among stakeholders to overcome barriers in scaling Mongolia’s network capabilities.

The opportunities for improvement in areas such as optical cable installation were accompanied by inspiring stories of success. Organizations like NBCCOLTD were applauded for leading standards adoption, while the participation of local universities and their students highlighted a promising wave of future talent in the networking sector. These collaborative efforts are creating a solid foundation for advancing the country’s Internet infrastructure.

APNIC’s Active Role and Future Possibilities

APNIC’s involvement was a cornerstone of the event. From executive-level participation to community training workshops, APNIC’s presence reinforced its ongoing support for mnNOG and its vision. Presentations, such as Yoshinobu ‘Maz’ Matsuzaki’s session on IPv6 scanning and Achie Atenza’s community update, provided valuable insights for attendees.

The conversations originating from mnNOG 7 extended beyond immediate technical advancements to strategic future planning. Discussions are already underway to potentially host APNIC 64 in Ulaanbaatar, a prospect that has garnered significant enthusiasm from local stakeholders. This reflects not only the growth of mnNOG but also its increasing recognition within the global networking community.

Building on Community and Collaboration

The strength of mnNOG lies in its vibrant and collaborative community. The dedication of the Program and Coordination Committees, along with volunteers from across various sectors, was evident throughout the event. Their tireless efforts ensured the event’s smooth execution, earning well-deserved recognition during the closing remarks. The ongoing support from international collaborators, government agencies, and sponsors has played an indispensable role in mnNOG’s success.

mnNOG 7 was not just an event; it was a testament to how collaboration and shared vision can drive technological progress. From innovative workshops to strategic partnerships, the conference illuminated the path forward for Mongolia’s network operators, cementing its place as a regionally recognized forum for knowledge exchange and capacity building. As the community looks to the future, the spirit of mnNOG promises to continue shaping the digital backbone of Mongolia and beyond.