I had a vague concept of IRR before this thread, and have researched them as a result of it. They seem quite useful. I didn't know anything about RPKI before this thread. I'm looking into that now.
So I don't think ARIN should spend it's limited resources on anything to do with it's copy of the IRR. In fact I'm not sure why they even operate one. It seems to be the realm of service providers to do so.
Can anyone enlighten me as to why a RIR is operating an IRR database? It doesn't make sense to me.
Sure. I've been staying quiet on this thread, but as one person who has used (and still maintains a number of records) ARIN's IRRd, I'll respond. Firstly, There are many networks with whom want to put their IRR objects into a neutral and objective database. I know that AltDB is "free", but as I've been told before, if you want support, donate to "Abha Ahuja Women in Science in Engineering" scholarship fund, otherwise your maintainer objects will never be approved (know this one first hand). And RADB, with whom used to be free charges a fee to have records maintained via their web GUI. Many network operators don't want to directly pay for such services, so ARIN makes sense in this regard. My original alternative was to setup my own IRRd, but was glad not to have to go to the trouble. Secondly, ARIN's IRRd is a lot easier to use than any service provider IRRd as those are intended for customer records only and if you wish to leave them, they will delete your records or just simply deny you support. Especially when said providers mirror ARIN's database. It's much like using PA vs PI IP space. If you want to be indebted to your provider, continue to use their "free" services. Thirdly, with the above in mind, ARIN provides support to all members of ARIN, so you can get a real person on the phone or by email to respond to questions. So, all in all, I am grateful that ARIN has supplied the IRRd service, would love to see the authentication enhanced, but otherwise I don't have any complaints. I encourage others to use the service regularly and am glad to see it getting some attention, we just need to make sure to channel the attention into enhancements and not limitations. thanks, charles