The Crucial Role of Routing Security in Internet Resilience: Insights from APNIC’s Acting Chair

The evolving digital world depends on robust and secure infrastructure, and nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of routing security. At the forefront of this global challenge, Taiji Kimura, the Acting Chair of the Routing Security Special Interest Group (SIG) at APNIC and Senior Expert at the Japan Network Information Center (JPNIC), is leading efforts to safeguard the Asia Pacific’s Internet operations. His work bridges technical innovation, community-building, and policy advocacy, addressing one of the Internet’s most urgent concerns: securing global routing infrastructure.

Driving Collaboration Through Leadership

With over two decades of experience in Internet operations, Taiji’s journey is one of dedication and innovation. Having earned his Master’s degree from the prestigious Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), he combines academic expertise with hands-on experience navigating the complexities of the Internet’s architecture. His interest in routing security began in 2003 when he became an active participant in APNIC discussions on Resource Public Key Infrastructure (RPKI) and other foundational technologies. Today, as Acting Chair of the Routing Security SIG, he focuses on planning impactful APNIC and APRICOT conference sessions by curating expert speakers, identifying emerging trends, and fostering inclusive, meaningful discussions.

“My primary responsibility is to coordinate presenters and facilitate sessions,” Taiji shares. His goal is to build bridges between registry operators, network engineers, and policymakers, ensuring the Asia Pacific region remains a leader in routing security. Under Taiji’s leadership, the SIG has become an invaluable hub for knowledge-sharing, where critical issues are tackled collaboratively to improve the safety and resilience of the Internet.

A Community-Centric Approach to Routing Security

Routing security is far from being a purely technical challenge; it requires the collective engagement of stakeholders across technical, policy, and community domains. Taiji acknowledges that creating trust and ensuring sustained collaboration are key to mitigating vulnerabilities. This is why the Routing Security SIG has dedicated itself to being a reliable forum that promotes continuous learning and innovation. From RPKI ROA deployments to tackling new frameworks such as Autonomous System Provider Authorization (ASPA) and Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security (MANRS), the SIG is a space where the community can align on best practices and learn from real-world deployments.

Taiji attributes the success of the SIG to its diverse involvement. “The SIG has featured updates from seasoned experts as well as innovative research from students,” he notes. This mix of experienced viewpoints and fresh perspectives ensures that discussions remain dynamic and relevant. Moreover, the SIG sheds light on the intersection of technology and governance, helping attendees understand why routing security must be a shared responsibility, not just a technical obligation.

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

Through his leadership, Taiji highlights one of the most pressing issues in routing security today: the lack of shared awareness among network operators and stakeholders. “Many networks remain vulnerable simply because their operators don’t understand the risks or the tools available to mitigate them,” he states. To combat this, he champions three critical actions: raising awareness, promoting collaboration, and advancing the adoption of technical standards like RPKI and MANRS. By prioritizing education and involvement, Taiji believes the Internet community can foster trust and create a safer digital ecosystem for all.

As APNIC 60 approaches, the Routing Security SIG promises to deliver a compelling line-up of topics, including solutions to ROA validator challenges, insights into Viet Nam’s RPKI deployment, strategies for promoting DNSSEC, and solutions for addressing BGP vulnerabilities. “We want to showcase a range of perspectives,” Taiji says, emphasizing the importance of creating a platform for both seasoned professionals and those new to routing security.

Through initiatives like these, the Routing Security SIG continues to be a beacon for collaboration and progress in the Asia Pacific region. With Taiji at the helm, the SIG aims to empower its community to tackle the ever-evolving challenges of routing security, creating a safer and more stable Internet for everyone.