Peering Strategy is a critical process developed at the inception of the service and regularly evaluated to ensure ongoing efficacy. During the initial phase, we conduct a comprehensive evaluation of network traffic patterns, identify traffic sources, perform a thorough inventory of the network and define growth projections.

Furthermore, we establish high-level peering policies that align with key business objectives, such as reducing latency, enhancing Quality of Service (QoS), increasing DDoS resilience, expanding market share, and improving overall network resilience.

Throughout the service’s lifecycle, we continuously revisit our objectives and assess the effectiveness of our strategies. As necessary, we implement new measures to maintain optimal performance and alignment with our business goals.

It is a systematic process involving periodic analysis of network traffic. During this process, we identify potential actions for optimization and determine the need for internal or external modifications. This includes ensuring that traffic from appropriate BGP Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs) flows through the desired peer interconnections and preparing action plans for modifying low-level BGP peering policies.

We utilize data extensively from protocols such as NetFlow, sFlow, IPFIX, J-Flow, BGP, BMP, SNMP, and gRPC, as well as external sources including various databases, measurement tools, looking glasses, and other relevant resources.

When there is a need to optimize or enhance the peering network, we engage with the relevant organizations to negotiate new agreements, which may involve settlement-free peering or paid arrangements. During these negotiations, we also discuss long-term strategies beneficial to both parties, such as the implementation of new peering policies, plans for upgrading interface speed standards at the edge network and decisions regarding CDN cache server locations etc.

Additionally, we establish metrics and thresholds based on the information exchanged to guide future actions with the organization.

Upon the successful completion of the negotiation phase, the process culminates in the establishment of physical cross-connections, remote peering connections, new transit agreements, or new direct BGP sessions. Physical cross-connections are typically established within a shared data center, requiring a Letter of Authorization (LoA) from one of the involved parties.

Alternatively, connections can be created utilizing existing physical infrastructure through VLAN configurations. This approach leverages the current network architecture to facilitate efficient and effective peering arrangements, ensuring seamless integration and enhanced network performance.

To ensure the successful implementation of all preceding steps, we conduct a comprehensive process that addresses operational issues and performance degradation. This includes continuous monitoring during network modifications, such as the establishment of new peerings or the activation of new Points of Presence (PoPs), as well as during regular operations. Monitoring is based on triggers, notifications, and customer tickets to promptly identify and resolve any issues.

All activities within this process are meticulously documented, including peering agreements and network diagrams, to provide a clear and organized record of operations. This thorough documentation ensures transparency, facilitates troubleshooting, and supports ongoing network optimization.