Direct links between the major internet exchanges in two neighbouring countries may make sense when both economies are already highly integrated. In this way, a more secure connection can be created and both economies are no longer dependent on foreign networks.

Belgium and Luxembourg have decided to do exactly that. Their closely integrated and increasingly digital economies will greatly benefit from a direct internet connection.

The direct connection between the Belgian node BNIX and the Luxembourg-based node LU-CIX will allow BNIX participants and LU-CIX members - internet service providers and content providers - to improve the data flows for their professional and private customers. This interconnection will reduce latency between the two countries while also providing enhanced security when exchanging cross-border data traffic. Both professionals and end users benefit from this.

With the digital transition and the growth of remote working over the last two years, optimal availability, data exchange security, and flexibility have become increasingly important in both countries. With this cooperation agreement, BNIX and LU-CIX aim to enhance the local and regional internet by facilitating traffic exchange ('peering') for a better end-user experience. Speed and quality of IP traffic can be significantly improved and costs can be reduced by preventing the exchange of data traffic through foreign networks or nodes.

"This geographical expansion opens up more opportunities for BNIX participants", explains Stefan Gulinck, Network Architect at Belnet, the company that manages BNIX. "By giving them access to a broader network of potential partners, they can make the most of their BNIX port. The reseller program and private VLAN connections were previously added to our service offering from the same perspective. The link between LU-CIX and BNIX can be seen as a combination of both services. By configuring an additional VLAN on their port, they can connect to the other internet node. BNIX or LU-CIX provide the connection at the participant's request".

According to Claude Demuth, President of LU-CIX, it is a logical step since both companies share values like neutrality, openness, reliability, and internet security. "LU-CIX and BNIX are founded to develop the local internet, so we want to work together to extend our sovereignty even more".

Photo credit: Jordan Harrison