State-of-the-Edge/glossary

Internet Exchange Point (IXP) is ill-defined

Closed this issue · 6 comments

IXP definition is not current or accurate.

For instance, not just "large network providers" connect at IXPs. These days "brick-and-mortar" companies connect, as well as small ISPs, etc.

This is incorrect: "A typical service provider will access tier 1 global providers and their networks via IXPs"
Global "tier 1" providers do not connect to IXPs typically. On the rare occasions when they do, it is for test peering, not for production traffic.

This is incorrect: "IXPs are sometimes referred to as Carrier Hotels"
Carrier Hotel are buildings with many carriers present. IXPs are separate, although they frequently are located inside Carrier Hotels to make it easier for carriers to connect to the IXPs. Outside of the US, they are usually run by separate corporations, and a single IXP can span multiple buildings and/or Carrier Hotels in the same building.

@ianainet Thank you for filing the issue. Could I convince you to take a stab at editing/rewriting the definition? You seem to have the necessary domain expertise.

Yes, I will work on a better definition. Thank you for the opportunity.

Do we have an updated definition to hand currently?

@ianainet Have you had a chance to look at this?

@ianainet Looking to issue a new version of the glossary this month - please add an update if you have it.

Can be reopened if an updated definition is available.