How to Determine if a VPS Line Uses the CN2 Network
CN2, or China Telecom Next Generation Carrying Network, is a multi-service backbone network capable of supporting converged applications for data, voice, and video. Typically, CN2 networks offer superior performance compared to standard networks, making it a valuable factor to consider when purchasing a VPS.
Route Tracing
You can use the tracert command in the command prompt to trace the route, but it is not very intuitive. Instead, we can use the BestTrace tool for a clearer view.
Download link: besttrace.exe
Enter the VPS IP address to see each routing node, along with IP location and map information, as shown in the screenshot below.
Obtaining Backbone Network IPs
Generally, the intermediate routing nodes belong to the network operator's backbone network. Refer to the "Key Routes" in the screenshot above and copy the IP address, for example, 59.43.244.141. Then, query this IP using the ipip.net tool.
If any IP displays "CN2 Backbone Network," it indicates that the request traveled through the CN2 network.
Backhaul Test
When people mention "two-way CN2," they mean both the request and the return path use the CN2 network. Such networks generally offer better quality. However, some IDCs only provide one-way CN2. How can you verify this?
For Linux-based VPS, you can use BestTrace for Linux with the following steps:
# Create a directory
mkdir test && cd test
# Download BestTrace for Linux and unzip
wget https://cdn.ipip.net/17mon/besttrace4linux.zip && unzip besttrace4linux.zip
# Add execution permissions
chmod +x besttrace
# Route tracing
./besttrace -q 1 180.153.68.1
In the last command, replace 180.153.68.1 with your own public IP address. The backhaul route is shown below.
The screenshot above shows a test using a HostUS Los Angeles VPS, revealing that the return path did not use the CN2 network, classifying it as a one-way CN2 connection.
Summary
While CN2 network is a useful reference factor, it does not represent all aspects of network quality. The following hosts currently support CN2 networks based on tests by xiaoz: