internet exchange

an internet exchange (ix) is a pivotal infrastructure within the global network ecosystem, serving as a physical platform where different networks—such as internet service providers (isps), content delivery networks (cdns), and large-scale web companies—come together to exchange internet traffic. this exchange of traffic is facilitated through mutual peering agreements, allowing for direct and efficient data interchange between disparate networks. the primary benefit of an internet exchange is the significant reduction in latency and transit costs achieved by bypassing longer, indirect routes. this direct interconnection improves internet speed, reliability, and overall user experience by keeping local internet traffic within regional boundaries.