What is an IX route server?

An Internet Exchange (IX) route server makes it easy for networks to manage their peering arrangements and for new peers to start exchanging traffic at an IX.

How does an IX route server work?

An IX route server aggregates BGP sessions acting as a central hub for networks to exchange routes. The actual traffic is still exchanged directly between the networks’ routers but using the route server makes it much easier and quicker to establish peering connections with other peers at the same IX.

How do you connect to an IX route server?

You need to supply the IX with some details (e.g. IP address of the peering LAN, your AS Number, technical contact info) and to configure your router to connect to the route server.

Who uses an IX route server?

Many networks peering at an IX use the Route Server. It is particularly useful for networks with an open peering policy, for networks that want to establish connections with many peers and for networks new to an IX.

What are the benefits of using an IX route server?

Using an IX router server gives you simplified interconnections. It allows networks to establish connections with each other simply by configuring their routers to exchange traffic with the route server rather than having to set up individual connections with each network. This saves time and effort while also reducing the risk of configuration errors.

Why peer with the Netnod IX route server?

The majority of the connected networks at Netnod are available through our route servers. It is simple to set up a route server connection which enables you to peer with a huge range of other networks. More information on how to set this up is available here.