Draft Policy ARIN-2024-4

Internet Exchange Point Definition

Status: Abandoned
Shepherds: Brian Jones, Matthew Gamble

Current Text (21 June 2024)

Problem Statement:

The term “Internet Exchange Point” appears in the Number Resource Policy Manual (NRPM) as an entity eligible for special allocations and treatment but is not clearly defined. This proposal seeks to define the term as it relates to ARIN policies.

Policy Statement:

2.18 Internet Exchange Point:

An Internet Exchange Point, also known as an Exchange Point, Internet Exchange, IX, IXP or NAP, is a shared, physical switching fabric used by three or more autonomous systems for the exchange of data destined for and between their respective networks.

Timetable for Implementation: Immediate.

Staff and Legal Review (3 October 2024)

Staff Understanding:

This draft policy introduces a new subsection to the Number Resource Policy Manual defining an Internet exchange point. The proposed definition specifies in part that an Internet exchange point must consist of three or more autonomous systems. Section 4.4 Micro-allocation supports this specification by stating that an Internet exchange point requires a minimum of three other participants, which is consistent with the proposed definition.

However, section 6.10.1 Micro-allocations for Critical Infrastructure currently states that Internet exchange point operators require a minimum of only two other participants, which creates a discrepancy. Staff recommends addressing and resolving this discrepancy.

Implementable as Written?: Yes

Impact on ARIN Registry Operations and Services: None

Legal Review: No material legal issue

Implementation Timeframe Estimate: 3 Months

Implementation Requirements:

• Staff Training
• Updates to public documentation
• Updates to internal procedures and guidelines

Proposal/Draft Policy Text Assessed: 21 June 2024

History and Earlier Versions

Related Meetings