IETF 101: London Meeting Guide, Sessions, Logistics, Highlights

The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) stands as the cornerstone of internet protocol development, bringing together experts worldwide to refine the technologies that power our digital world. IETF 101, hosted in the vibrant city of London from March 17 to 23, 2018, drew approximately 1,000 engineers to the Hilton London Metropole. This event wasn’t just a meeting; it was a catalyst for innovation in areas like routing security, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, IPv6 deployment, DNS protection, privacy measures, and community-driven networks. Whether you’re a seasoned participant or new to these gatherings, this guide unpacks the event’s structure, logistical essentials, and standout discussions.

Event Timeline and Participation Options

The week kicked off with high-energy pre-meeting activities. On Saturday, March 17, enthusiasts gathered for a hackathon and code sprint, fostering hands-on collaboration on emerging prototypes and bug fixes. The core meeting spanned Sunday, March 18, through Friday, March 23, featuring working group sessions, birds-of-a-feather (BoF) meetings, and plenaries.

• Hackathon/Code Sprint: Ideal for developers to prototype IETF drafts.
• Main Sessions: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with breaks for networking.
• Technical Plenary: Wednesday, March 21, 17:10–19:40, streamed live.

Remote participation was robust, with live streams available at ietf.org/live. Tools like Meetecho enabled virtual attendance, chat, and audio contributions, ensuring global inclusivity.

Navigating London: Venue and Transportation Insights

The Hilton London Metropole, a sprawling venue with multiple wings and levels, hosted the event. Attendees navigated conference rooms, ballrooms, and lounges efficiently, though the layout demanded good planning.

Paddington offered frequent trains: first from Heathrow at 5:07 AM, last at 11:42 PM. For city exploration, the Oyster Card proved indispensable, capping daily fares and simplifying travel across zones.

Internet Society’s Spotlight Topics

The Internet Society (ISOC) played a pivotal role, highlighting areas of overlap with IETF efforts. These sessions addressed pressing challenges in internet evolution.

Enhancing Routing Infrastructure Security

Routing security remains critical amid rising threats like BGP hijacks. Discussions focused on protocols like RPKI and SIDR, aiming to validate route origins and prevent disruptions. Participants debated deployment hurdles and path validation standards.

Internet of Things: Standards for Scalability

IoT’s explosive growth demanded interoperable protocols. Sessions explored low-power networks, security for constrained devices, and CoAP enhancements, ensuring seamless integration without compromising safety.

IPv6: Accelerating Global Deployment

With IPv4 exhaustion ongoing, IPv6 adoption surged in talks. Experts shared transition strategies, operator experiences, and incentives for migration, underscoring IPv6’s role in future-proofing networks.¹

DNS Security: DNSSEC and Beyond

Protecting the Domain Name System involved DNSSEC validation, DANE for TLS authentication, and emerging DNS privacy measures like DNS over HTTPS (DoH). These aimed to thwart cache poisoning and surveillance.

Privacy, Identity, and Encryption Frontiers

Balancing usability with strong encryption, sessions covered OPAQUE for password authentication, MLS for group messaging, and privacy in identity systems. Debates weighed metadata protection against regulatory pressures.²

Empowering Community Networks

Grassroots initiatives gained traction, with talks on affordable wireless tech, spectrum sharing, and protocol adaptations for underserved regions, promoting equitable access.

Key Sessions and BoF Highlights

Four BoFs launched new work: one on measurement tools, another on network telemetry, a third on quantum-resistant crypto, and one on application-layer streaming. These incubated ideas with broad interest checks.

The technical plenary featured cutting-edge presentations, streamed for remote viewers, often sparking consensus on structural changes like IETF’s administrative evolution.

Practical Tips for First-Time Attendees

Newcomers thrived by preparing agendas via datatracker.ietf.org, joining beginner tutorials, and engaging in social events. Networking over coffee or dinners built lasting collaborations.

• Download the IETF app for schedules and notes.
• Book quiet rooms early for side meetings.
• Contribute remotely via jabber or audio queues.

Legacy of IETF 101: Impact on Internet Standards

IETF 101 advanced dozens of RFCs and drafts, influencing real-world deployments. From fortified routing to privacy-enhanced protocols, outcomes shaped a more resilient internet. London’s hosting reaffirmed Europe’s role in standards development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the IETF?

The IETF develops open standards through collaborative working groups, producing RFCs that define internet protocols like TCP/IP and HTTP.

How can I participate remotely in future IETF meetings?

Access live streams, Meetecho platforms, and mailing lists; no registration fee for audio participation.

Why was London chosen for IETF 101?

Excellent infrastructure, central location, and proximity to tech hubs made it ideal for 1,000+ attendees.

What are BoFs?

Birds-of-a-Feather sessions gauge interest for new working groups, discussing scope and support.

Is prior experience required?

No—tutorials and new participant orientations welcome all levels.

References

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