In this step, each router will read and process its configuration file, then originate and process BGP routing information. At the end of Step 1, each router knows its own AS number, and the port number of all other ASs. Once it knows this information, each router reads its configuration file, M.cfg , where M is its AS number. Recall that M is a number between 1 and N , both inclusive. Thus, a router with AS number 2 reads its configuration from 2.cfg .
All configuration files reside in the directory specified as an argument to the manager.
One or more lines of the form neighbor L , where L is an AS number. This means that the router should originate a route to the specified IP prefix and mask. X seconds after the router starts up. Preference values are positive with higher preference values implying more favored routes. Preference values are positive with higher preference values implying more favored routes.