The Role of Regional IXPs Beyond 2022

Internet exchange points (IXPs) have been a vital part of the digital ecosystem for a long time.

A number of factors are causing the huge surge in internet traffic, including;

• More latency-sensitive applications being developed and rolled out
• Significant growth of migrations to cloud-based services
• A huge increase of content consumption
• An extensive use of remote working

Strong, efficient network connections are crucial for carrying out the daily online transactions of modern life. As traffic continues to soar, IXPs continue to be a vital part of the internet ecosystem. ISPs can easily extend their networks at internet exchanges by swapping routing information with other ISPs at local hubs, rather than sending regional traffic long distances to extend.

Through the exchange of traffic at the closest IXP, service providers’ see lower latency, minimised faults, and an enhanced end-user experience.

An IX environment works like an international airport hub connecting domestic flights with international ones. Airlines exchange passengers between their flights at regional airports, rather than in different countries, just like networks exchange traffic across an IXP. Exactly like any passenger hates delays and multiple stops at the same time, internet users love high-performance and low latency routes.

That’s why we at MIX decided to extend our presence to new remote locations as Bologna and Palermo.

With new developments and advancing technologies, what does the future of an IX like MIX look like?

To keep up with the quality of internet services in multiple metropolitan areas, an expansion of local interconnection is necessary. IXPs operate like a boost infrastructure providing stable, fast, efficient internet to more remote regions. With more investment in localised internet infrastructure, here are a few benefits we can expect to see. 

Having a developed digital economy gives regions a competitive edge

The development of regional hubs is crucial to strengthening the economy and creating a better quality of life for citizens. Undoubtedly, future economic growth is linked to a region’s underpinning infrastructure. Just as no industry can afford not to explore digital transformation initiatives, communities must ensure their infrastructure can handle 21st century internet requirements. 

Local IXPs help to improve the quality of digital applications

Many companies require high-performance and secure interconnection to do business, and those that wield this technology well are often incredibly successful. Therefore, establishing a regional IXP can offer tremendous opportunities for advancement. 

As data is not forced to travel such large distances, local IXs can reduce lag and improve connectivity. Local interconnection also enhances resilience and traffic balance, creating a more stable network which ultimately leads to a better quality of experience. This is particularly salient for latency-sensitive applications like video conferencing and online collaboration tools. 

Increased connectivity to clouds and content providers helps increase growth potential

As so many modern workers value the ability to work from home, having a stable and strong internet connection can be a huge draw towards (or against!) different regions. Encouraging migration to your region through making it attractive to citizens is integral for building the local economy, and by investing in digital infrastructure, decision makers can make a positive contribution to regional economic development. 

Italy’s leading interconnection platform is ready for the future

With IXPs across Italy, (Milan metro area, Bologna and Palermo) totalling 10 points of presence (PoPs), MIX offers the perfect strategic gateway between central and southern Europe. The MIX interconnection platform offers customers an opportunity to exchange Internet traffic with enhanced network performance, increased data flow control, reducing latency and IP-Transit costs. For more information, you can reach out to our IXP experts here