Internet Exchange Points: An Essential Infrastructure for Rural Broadband Initiatives

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Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are a vital part of the network of networks that is the Internet. Without them, the Internet could not function because the different networks that make up the Internet would not be able to exchange traffic with each other. The simplest form of an exchange point is a direct connection between two Internet Service Providers (ISPs). When more than two providers operate in the same area, an independent switch operates more efficiently as a common interconnection point at which to exchange traffic between the local networks. This is similar to the development of regional airport hubs where many different airlines are served. At these locations, airlines exchange passengers between their flights in much the same way that networks exchange traffic across the IXP. IXPs are one of the building blocks around which the Internet is built.


Internet Exchange Points: An Essential Infrastructure for Rural Broadband Initiatives