What is an Internet eXchange?

The purpose of an Internet eXchange (IX) is to allow local networks to connect directly rather than through third party networks such as an Internet upstream provider. This has the advantage of lower costs, network latency and billed bandwidth usage while increasing redundancy and speed. The physical interconnection of networks and exchange of traffic is known as peering.

Peering

IP traffic exchanged between participants in an IX is made possible by using Border Gateway Protocol(BGP) routing between them. Routes are announced through the peering relationship between participating networks, either routes to their own range of addresses or ranges of other networks peered with them.

Who can connect to TP-IX?

Anybody that has a valid Autonomous System (ASN).
In North America, ASNs are typically issued by ARIN.

I don't have an ASN, but I still want to connect, what can I do?

First, check with your current provider to see if your provider is already connected to TP-IX! Otherwise, if you already have fiber connectivity to the Missabe Building, contact us.

Why would somebody want to connect?

By connecting at an exchange, a provider can typically provide better performance for their customers and save money.

What do I need to connect at TP-IX?

You will need an ASN, a router or server that supports BGP version 4, and a physical connection to the exchange or a connection from a local loop provider.

How do I peer with TP-IX?

Complete this form and e-mail it to peering (AT) tp-ix.net

How much does it cost?

Gigabit connections to TP-IX are free. 10GbE connections are also available at a nominal fee.

Is TP-IX a “carrier neutral” exchange?

Strictly speaking, no. TP-IX is currently operated by Paul Bunyan Communications (PBC). PBC is a member-owned cooperative (a 'tax exempt' IRS 501(c)12 ).

PBC's intention is to operate TP-IX until it grows large enough to be self-supporting on a long-term basis. At that point, PBC plans to change TP-IX to a standalone cooperative owned and operated by its members.

What if TP-IX never grows large enough to become self-supporting?

Paul Bunyan Communications recognizes that TP-IX improves Internet performance, increases reliability and lowers costs for its cooperative members. PBC is committed to maintaining TP-IX on a long-term basis, if needed.

How is traffic routed?

A TP-IX member can choose to peer with other TP-IX members directly or connect to the TP-IX route servers via BGP. BGP is the only routing protocol permitted at the exchange.

Does TP-IX have backup power?

Yes. TP-IX has battery and generator backup power.

Does TP-IX support jumbo frames?

Yes.

Does TP-IX support IPv6?

Yes.

Does TP-IX support multicast?

Yes.

Where do I get IP addresses?

TP-IX issues IPv4 and IPv6 addresses to its members for connecting to the exchange. Contact ARIN to get addresses issued to your organization.