But what is this peering that you keep harping on about?

Peering and interconnection over an IXP (Internet Exchange Point) are essential concepts for the Internet and its smooth operation.

An IXP is a physical point where different Internet networks, such as those of Internet Service Providers (ISPs), large companies, content networks, websites, CDNs, video networks, etc., meet to exchange traffic. All this takes place in data centres.

Peering is an agreement that allows two Internet networks to exchange traffic with each other at no direct cost. The idea is "I carry your traffic, you carry mine".

The benefits of peering are many and immediate:

Cost reduction The two players no longer have to pay a third party to exchange traffic.

Performance Improvement Fewer hops (steps) between networks, which can reduce latency (response time) and improve connection speed, and the risk of intermediate failures.

Autonomy and Control Networks can manage more directly with whom they exchange traffic.

Impact on users and businesses :

Although these concepts may seem highly technical, they have a direct impact on the user experience. Better interconnection and peering will always mean faster downloads, better quality video streaming, and reduced delays in online games, for example.

For companies, particularly those that use the Internet intensively, joining an IXP is a way of entering the big league and becoming a real Internet player, rather than just an Internet customer.