Skip to main content
DSDownloadSpeed
Infrastructure

Peering & Internet Exchange Points

The direct interconnection between internet networks where they exchange traffic without paying a third party. Peering quality directly affects the speed between your ISP and content providers.

What It Means

Internet traffic flows between networks at peering points and internet exchange points (IXPs). When Netflix sends video to your home, the data passes from Netflix's network to your ISP's network at a peering point. Congested peering links cause buffering and slow speeds, even if your last-mile connection is fast. In 2014, Netflix publicly documented how Comcast's congested peering links degraded streaming quality until Netflix paid for direct interconnection. There are about 100 IXPs in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Peering & Internet Exchange Points" mean?

The direct interconnection between internet networks where they exchange traffic without paying a third party. Peering quality directly affects the speed between your ISP and content providers.

Why does Peering & Internet Exchange Points matter for internet quality?

Internet traffic flows between networks at peering points and internet exchange points (IXPs). When Netflix sends video to your home, the data passes from Netflix's network to your ISP's network at a peering point. Congested peering links cause buffering and slow speeds, even if your last-mile conne...

Related Terms

ISP (Internet Service Provider)
A company that provides internet access to consumers and businesses. Major U.S. ISPs include Comcast (Xfinity), Charter (Spectrum), AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.
Last Mile
The final leg of the network connecting the ISP's infrastructure to the customer's home or business. The last mile is typically the most expensive part of broadband deployment.
Provider Competition
The number of ISPs offering broadband service in a given area. Areas with three or more competitors typically have lower prices and faster speeds than monopoly or duopoly markets.
Municipal Broadband
Internet service owned and operated by a local government or public utility, rather than a private ISP. Often provides faster speeds at lower prices than incumbent providers.

Learn More

About This Data

Definitions based on FCC standards, industry specifications, and federal broadband policy. Speed benchmarks reflect 2024 FCC standards. See our methodology.