RFC1149 (IPoAC) for Ultra-Resilient Log Delivery
In modern distributed environments, where systems are spread across continents and uptime is non-negotiable, the need for robust, fault-tolerant log transport mechanisms has never been greater. At Graylog, we are committed to ensuring that your observability infrastructure can handle even the most extreme network disruptions—planned or otherwise. This is why we decided to support IPoAC.
As part of our ongoing effort to support advanced, redundant communication protocols for disaster recovery and geographically isolated nodes, we proudly announce we are testing support for RFC1149 – IP over Avian Carriers (IPoAC) in Graylog 6.1 and above. This capability adds another layer of physical transport redundancy, designed for environments where traditional networking fails or simply isn’t feasible.
Yes. Carrier pigeons. With USB-C backpacks.
(Well, not officially USB-C, but we’re working on it.)
Enterprise-Grade Features Include:
- Payload-Aware Avian Routing (PAAR): Ensures your logs reach their destination with minimal feather loss.
- Coop-to-Coop Encryption: End-to-end TLS support (provided both endpoints agree on seed types).
- Automatic Fallback from TCP/IP to IPoAC: When your primary and secondary networks go down, Graylog automatically engages bird mode.
Perfect for:
- Disaster recovery zones where infrastructure is compromised.
- Remote sites with no stable internet but lots of sky.
- Air-gapped environments where nothing leaves unless it flaps.
Tested in the Wild
Our test environment spanned two redundant data centers: one in Toronto, one in Moose Jaw. Log packets were attached to trained Canada Geese and dispatched every 30 minutes. Average throughput was… well, limited, but 100% reliable. We even saw improvement when we removed debug logs to reduce the weight per bird.
Bonus: birds don’t suffer from jitter, packet loss, or zero-day exploits.
Things to Consider
- Birds are not hot-swappable.
- Network congestion may occur during migration season.
- Compliance with local wildlife regulations is your responsibility.
Available Now
Graylog 6.1+ supports IPoAC via plugin.
Just run: graylog-ctl enable-ip-over-avian
You’ll need a rooftop, a small coop, and patience.
Carrier pigeons not included—yet.
Final Thoughts
In a world of unreliable fiber, network outages, and suspiciously scheduled maintenance windows, you deserve a trustworthy backup. Graylog’s RFC1149 support isn’t just a feature—it’s a lifestyle. Because when the logs must flow—they will fly.
About Graylog
At Graylog, our vision is a secure digital world where organizations of all sizes can effectively guard against cyber threats. We’re committed to turning this vision into reality by providing Threat Detection & Response that sets the standard for excellence. Our cloud-native architecture delivers SIEM, API Security, and Enterprise Log Management solutions that are not just efficient and effective—whether hosted by us, on-premises, or in your cloud—but also deliver a fantastic Analyst Experience at the lowest total cost of ownership. We aim to equip security analysts with the best tools for the job, empowering every organization to stand resilient in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.
Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.