bgp.tools Alternative
bgp.tools is a well-regarded BGP lookup site and a common BGPView successor. ipctl.io covers the same lookups (ASN and prefix) and adds a JSON REST API, geolocation and threat intelligence in the same answer.
ASN Lookup
Prefixes, peers, org details
BGP Routes
Multi-collector route visibility
RPKI & IRR
Route validation and cross-checks
Geolocation
Country, city, and network data
Feature Comparison
| Feature | bgp.tools | ipctl.io |
|---|---|---|
| ASN, prefix and DNS-name search | Yes | ASN, prefix and IP search |
| Looking glass | Yes | Route view per prefix (not a live router query) |
| RPKI | RPKI and IRR monitoring (paid) | RPKI status on every prefix and route |
| Programmatic access | Whois (TCP 43, bulk mode) and data exports; scripting/API access is listed as a paid feature | JSON REST API: 250/day without signup, 1,000/day with a free key |
| IP geolocation | Not listed | Yes |
| IP threat intelligence and Tor check | Not listed | Yes |
| IRR cross-reference and abuse contacts | Not listed | Yes |
| BGP monitoring and alerting | Yes, paid | Not a focus |
Looking for bgp.tools with an API?
One request returns JSON for an ASN, prefix or IP: origin, routes, RPKI status and more. 250 requests/day without signup, 1,000/day with a free account. Paid plans go higher.
When to use which
Choose bgp.tools for
Looking-glass tools, BGP monitoring and alerting, whois-style scripting and full routing-table exports.
Choose ipctl.io for
JSON lookups from scripts and services, and one answer that also carries geolocation, threat context, IRR objects and abuse contacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does bgp.tools have an API?
bgp.tools documents whois access on TCP port 43 (with a bulk mode), plus downloadable exports such as a prefix-to-origin table and an ASN name list that require a descriptive HTTP User-Agent. Its home page lists scripting/API access among its paid features. ipctl.io offers per-ASN, per-prefix and per-IP JSON lookups over a REST API with a free tier.
How does ipctl.io compare to bgp.tools?
Both let you look up ASNs and prefixes. bgp.tools is strong on looking-glass style tools and BGP monitoring. ipctl.io focuses on one JSON answer per IP, prefix or ASN that combines routing, RPKI, IRR, geolocation and threat context, and on API access.
Is ipctl.io a replacement for bgp.tools?
For lookups and automation, often yes. If you rely on bgp.tools for monitoring, alerting or its looking glass tools, keep using it for those; the two work well side by side.
Is ipctl.io free?
Yes. Website lookups need no account. The REST API allows 250 requests per day without an account; a free account raises that to 1,000 per day, and paid plans go higher.
Can I get the data in bulk, like a full routing table?
ipctl.io is built for lookups by IP, prefix or ASN rather than full-table dumps. If you need a complete routing table export, use a dump-style source such as the exports bgp.tools publishes.
Free, no signup required. Start querying IP addresses, ASNs, and prefixes now.
Coming from BGPView? BGPView migration guide → Or try the BGP looking glass →
Last verified: October 2026
This comparison is provided for informational purposes only. Feature availability, pricing, and capabilities may change without notice. All trademarks belong to their respective owners. ipctl.io is not affiliated with bgp.tools.