The Internet Exchange Point (IXP) provided by the FCCN Unit has a direct impact on internet usage in Portugal. Learn how.
#1 A shortcut between domains
THE GigaPIX is a service that allows several Internet providers (ISPs) and distribution networks of contents (CDNs) exchange traffic between themselves, generating a higher connection speed.
#2 Cost reduction
There are currently 40 entities that are members of GigaPix and thus exchange internet traffic. This number has grown over the past few years and allows for very significant cost reduction, by avoiding the use of more expensive international connections. The more traffic exchange points and nodes there are, the easier it will be to optimize—find the most economically viable path.
Some of the GigaPIX member entities are, for example: MEO, FACEBOOK, GOOGLE, among others.
#3 Improve the experience
Keeping local traffic local, round trip time could be close to three times faster that the round trip time in Portugal [total time it takes for a signal to travel between the point of origin and destination], thus considerably improving the user experience, both when browsing the Internet and in cases of streaming, VoIP accesses (VOffice over IP) and video/audio conference content, online video games, among others.
#4 Reliability and safety
GigaPix has a direct impact on increasing network infrastructure redundancy [duplication of components to ensure reliability, security, availability, and perfect network system operation in the event of failures or overloads]. This is because a greater number of traffic exchange points ensures greater control and capacity to optimize infrastructure.
#5 Neutrality and increasing benefit for users
Taking as an example the Science, Technology and Society Network (RCTS), the academic and scientific network run by the FCCN Unit, has more than 30% of its traffic through GigaPix. Considering the increase in GigaPIX members, this figure has been increasing over the past few years. In turn, the increase in membership is a factor that generates benefit for users, content providers and Internet providers, being that, in the case of a neutral point, is not owned or operated by a commercial entity and is not for profit.
A note on GigaPIX traffic increases
GigaPIX traffic registered a growth of 35% since the first confirmed case of coronavirus appeared in Portugal. The state of emergency—now renewed—which led to a scenario of containment and social isolation, generated this increase.
