IXP Tracker
An Internet exchange point (IXP) is a physical place, sometimes inside a data center, where different networks send traffic to one another. This is known as peering, and is how one network operator can send data from their network to another, without having to pay. Peering is part of what makes Internet services faster, more reliable, and cheaper. IXPs are vital nodes in the peering ecosystem, and an important part of the global Internet.
Active Internet Exchange Points
The total number of IXPs in operation around the world, as of September 2024.
IXP capacity growth over time
The global total of IXPs over time, shown along with the growth in combined capacity offered by the world's IXPs.
Top 10 countries/territories by IXP coverage
Internet users in these countries have the highest proportion of access to their local Internet via IXPs.
- Suriname : 85.71%
- Sint Maarten (Dutch part) : 75.00%
- Saint Martin (French part) : 71.43%
- Trinidad and Tobago : 66.67%
- Saint Kitts and Nevis : 62.50%
- Djibouti : 60.00%
- Grenada : 60.00%
- Réunion : 57.14%
- South Africa : 52.83%
- Guam : 50.00%
Internet Exchange Points and the power of peering
Internet exchange points (IXPs) are physical locations where different networks can send traffic to one another, serving as a kind of "traffic circle" for the data that flows through them. So, rather than a network having to go all the way back to its own hub, which might be located halfway across the world, it can use another network to move the data. The networks mutually agree not to charge any money for this, since everyone using the IXP benefits.
This practice, known as peering, reduces latency, lowers costs, and makes connections more reliable. Peering means there is a larger number of routes for data traffic to travel on, which makes the whole network more resistant to problems in international connectivity. All of this can improve access and support economic growth.
IXPs are a vital part of a strong peering ecosystem, and they help to make the Internet more resilient.