In many of our previous blogs, we’ve discussed the importance of community within the context of building strong connectivity foundations. We’ve also discussed how strong IX ecosystems offer the advantage of data gravity, and we’ve explored how a strong number of peers at a given exchange continues to build on each individual’s network speed, redundancy, reach and more.

Let’s take one more step back and look at the big picture of the global internet exchange fabric — how does understanding that ecosystem on a grand scale help each individual IX and each peer at each of those locations? Of course, the old adage of ‘information is power’ is a great place to begin, but to take it a few levels deeper, look at one of the connectivity industry’s most comprehensive resources: PeeringDB.

PeeringDB is a self-described freely available, user-maintained database of networks and the go-to location for interconnection data. The resource was created to help support peering between networks and peering coordinators, and today, it includes a wide range of interconnection data from networks, clouds, and enterprises and services, alongside interconnection facilities at the forefront of the internet’s edge. It’s a volunteer-run resource that is driven by the pursuit of enhanced data security, privacy, integrity and validation.

So, that’s very heartwarming and all, but we know everyone is thinking it: Why should I care?

Here’s the value for network operators: The PeeringDB database contains the interconnection data for almost one-third of Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs). So, when registered in PeeringDB, network operators easily identify networks looking to interconnect, as well as learn how to connect — and vice versa. That means connectivity development can be accelerated, and it can be based on better insight for more decisive innovation.

Still, we’ll be transparent: We’re not being entirely selfless in delivering this message. In fact, sharing the value of PeeringDB does help IXs like OmahaIX — but in truth, it’s more of a ‘help us help you’ situation. Let us explain:

Everyone knows that every IX loves to shout the value of its ecosystem (and everyone who knows us at OmahaIX and 1623 Farnam knows we take especially great pride in our rich, robust, high-value ecosystem of partners, platforms and peers). A shared industry database like this helps OmahaIX make its roster public — and since it’s no secret that what a new peer is looking for in an IX is a large number of existing high-value connections, it makes that value more apparent, keeping our ecosystem’s momentum strong and growing.

Here’s how that helps our peers: In showing the value of our ecosystem more clearly, everyone benefits from the strengthened interest that will be generated from new potential peers, and with that increased stream of participants comes even more reach, lower latencies, more connectivity opportunities — all that great stuff that digital business thrives on.

It’s a winning scenario all around. Plus, what makes it even better is that PeeringDB is always actively seeking new ways to drive value for customers (a customer service approach we also hold very near and dear to our hearts at OmahaIX).

So, now you know why PeeringDB matters, and how it contributes to even better connectivity for all. Now what?

Well, you can learn more about how to get started on PeeringDB here, or register here directly. Alternatively, please reach out to us if you want to learn more — we’re always ready to help.