Autonomous systems are large, enterprise-level networks with thousands of nodes that use bandwidth from multiple ISPs and have significant Internet traffic. These systems are so complex that if they are not properly configured, it can result in decreased Internet performance, high bandwidth consumption and traffic. To counteract this problem, a set of services is implemented to remove or reduce these concerns, known as routing control.

A routing control mechanism is composed of hardware and software, which monitors all the outgoing traffic through its connection with the Internet service providers (ISPs), and helps in selecting the best path for efficient delivery of the data. This switching is performed when the routing control calculates the performance and efficiency of all the ISPs and selects only those that have performed optimally in these areas. Route control devices are configured according to the criteria set by the company, and according to parameters like cost, performance and bandwidth.