What is an IXP?
An IXP (internet exchange point) is shared infrastructure where networks interconnect and exchange traffic locally. We explain who is there and why to join.
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An IXP (Internet Exchange Point) is neutral, shared infrastructure where many independent networks connect to one another to exchange internet traffic directly. Instead of passing data between themselves through paid transit providers and distant hubs, operators, content providers and platforms meet in one place and peer locally. As a result, traffic between two Polish networks can stay inside Poland rather than detouring through Frankfurt or Amsterdam.
Who is present at an IXP
An exchange brings together very different types of networks that share one aim: exchanging traffic close to its source. The more participants, the more valuable a given IXP becomes for each of them (a network effect).
- ISPs and access networks that want to cut transit cost and shorten paths.
- Content providers and CDNs (video platforms, clouds) that deliver traffic as close to users as possible.
- Hosting companies and data centers connecting their networks to the local market.
- Route servers run by the IXP operator, which simplify multilateral peering.
Why join an IXP
Presence at an IXP gives a network several concrete benefits. Latency drops when communicating with other local networks, domestic traffic stays in-country, and cost falls because peering traffic is usually not billed by volume the way transit is. On top of that you gain resilience from an extra path that does not depend on transit. For many operators, joining an IXP is the first step toward carrying connectivity over several independent paths.
IXP versus IP transit
An IXP is a place to peer, not a transit service. Through an exchange you reach the networks that are present on it and willing to peer with you, but not the entire internet. So an IXP does not replace transit, it complements it: transit provides full reachability and acts as a fallback, while peering at the IXP captures as much local traffic as possible to cut cost. How the fabric and route servers work technically is covered in a separate guide.
Polish IXPs and AS202520 SkyPass
AS202520 SkyPass is present at Polish internet exchanges including THINX, TPIX, WRIX and 1-IX, and runs an open peering policy there. You can set up a session with us through a given IXP's route servers or directly as private peering. For operators without their own port at an exchange, we offer remote access through our infrastructure, so they can peer locally without building their own data-center presence.
Frequently asked questions
How is an IXP different from IP transit?
An IXP is a place where networks peer, exchanging traffic directly. Transit is a paid service giving access to the whole internet. Through an IXP you only reach networks present on it, so an IXP complements transit rather than replacing it.
Should every network join an IXP?
Joining makes sense once you have your own ASN and enough local traffic to justify the port and backhaul cost. Smaller networks can start with remote IXP access before building their own presence.
How much does IXP presence cost?
The main costs are the port fee on the exchange switch, any membership fee and the backhaul link to the IXP. The peering traffic itself is usually settlement-free.
What are the most important Polish IXPs?
The most important include THINX, TPIX, WRIX and 1-IX. AS202520 SkyPass is present at them and offers peering as well as remote access for operators without their own port.