What are the types of Internet Peering?

Types of Internet Peering include public peering (at IXPs), private peering (direct connections), bilateral (1:1) and multilateral peering (one agreement with multiple partners), and open versus restrictive peering arrangements.

How does Peering improve cybersecurity?

Peering offers better control over data and network protection by reducing intermediaries, allowing operators to monitor traffic and detect threats more easily, while also posing challenges if misconfigured, such as susceptibility to DDoS or route hijacking.

Internet Peering

Q: What is Internet Peering?

Internet Peering is a process where two independent networks, usually operators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs), connect directly to exchange data without intermediaries, making the Internet faster, more efficient, and reliable.

Q: Why is Peering the foundation of the Internet?

Peering is crucial because it directly connects networks, reducing costs, shortening data transmission times, and improving network flexibility, scalability, and resilience, ensuring smooth Internet operation even during peak traffic.

Q: Peering vs. Internet Transit – what are the differences?

Peering involves voluntary, usually free bilateral arrangements covering partner traffic, offering high control, while Internet Transit is a commercial, paid service providing full Internet access and is governed by contracts with regular fees.

What is Internet Peering?

Discover the world of Internet Peering – the secret ingredient that makes the Internet faster, more efficient, and more reliable! Instead of sending your traffic through complicated labyrinths of multiple intermediaries, peering allows two independent networks – usually operators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) – to connect directly and exchange data… and it’s free of charge! All of this ensures that Internet traffic takes a shorter path, has lower latency, and doesn’t unnecessarily burden main network routes.

Why is Peering the foundation of the Internet?

Peering is not only about savings; it’s a key component of the Internet’s architecture. Thanks to peering, networks are directly connected, which lowers costs, shortens data transmission times, and makes the network flexible, scalable, and more resistant to failures. It’s this kind of collaboration between networks that allows the entire Internet to operate smoothly, even during peak traffic times.

Types of Internet Peering – flexible ways to connect networks

Public peering: Networks meet at special exchange nodes called Internet Exchange Points (IXPs). One location, many options – you can connect to many partners simultaneously through shared infrastructure!
Private peering: Two large servers, one private cable – this direct line is a recipe for maximum quality, security, and performance.
Bilateral and multilateral peering: The 1:1 version (bilateral, meaning specific arrangements with just one network), or all-in (multilateral, meaning a single agreement with multiple partners via an exchange point operator).
Open vs. restrictive peering: Open – cooperation with all interested parties, without limitations. Restrictive – only selected networks, under special conditions, such as traffic volume or technical requirements.

Peering and cybersecurity – better control and new challenges

A direct, clear connection means not only speed – it also provides greater control over data and opportunities for better network protection. By reducing the number of intermediaries, operators can more easily monitor traffic and detect threats. But! If such connections are misconfigured or neglected, they can become gateways for attacks like DDoS or route hijacking. That’s why modern tools like Sycope are vigilant, scanning for suspicious events in real time and ensuring that data at network junctions remains safe and stable.

How does it work – mechanisms and principles of Peering

IXPs (Internet Exchange Points): Public nodes where many networks cross-connect their cables and exchange data – the ideal solution for establishing new peering relationships.
Private links: Dedicated lines for networks that require extra performance and control.
Arrangements and policies: Cooperation? It’s not just a cable – it’s also specific rules regarding data volumes, hardware quality, or monitoring procedures.
Technical and security requirements: Agreements are protected by appropriate protocols, device configurations, and strict cybersecurity procedures. The best practice is to use modern tools for control, automation, and traffic reporting.

Peering vs. Internet Transit – what are the differences?

Nature of cooperation: Bilateral, usually free of charge (peering) vs. Commercial, paid service (transit)
Service scope: Covers traffic between partners (peering) vs. Full access to the entire Internet (transit)
Contract terms: Voluntary agreements (peering) vs. Service governed by a contract (transit)
Costs: Usually free (depending on policies) (peering) vs. Regular traffic fees (transit)
Typical use: Large networks, operators, content providers (peering) vs. End customers, routers requiring full Internet access (transit)
Control over traffic: High (peering) vs. Limited (transit)

Peering security – what to watch out for?

DDoS attacks: Direct traffic between large networks is an attractive target for large-scale attacks.
Routing configuration errors: Improper BGP settings pose a risk of redirecting traffic to unauthorized destinations (route hijacking).
Lack of monitoring: Without oversight, outages or breaches may go unnoticed. Tools like Sycope help enable rapid responses here.
Different security policies: Each network has its own standards – if they don’t align, security gaps for cybercriminals can emerge.
Cooperation and information sharing: Real security requires partnership and sharing threat data.
Access control: Clearly defined rules about who has access to what minimize the risk of unauthorized actions.