Private peering is a direct and dedicated network connection established between two Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or networks for the purpose of exchanging internet traffic. Unlike public peering, which occurs at an Internet Exchange Point (IXP) and involves multiple participants, private peering involves a bilateral agreement between two specific parties. This arrangement allows for a more controlled and direct exchange of data.
Here are some key points to understand about private peering:
- Direct Connection: Private peering involves physically connecting the networks’ routers or switches, often within a data center or network interconnection facility. This connection creates a direct link through which traffic can flow between the two networks.
- Control: Private peering offers greater control over the quality and performance of the peering connection. Network administrators have the ability to fine-tune routing and traffic management to meet their specific requirements.
- Performance: Since private peering bypasses the public internet and its associated congestion, the connection typically offers lower latency and higher throughput compared to using public routes.
- Security: Private peering enhances security because the exchange of traffic occurs over a dedicated link, reducing exposure to potential threats from the broader internet.
- Traffic Volume: Private peering is often chosen by networks with substantial volumes of traffic exchanged between them. This could include content providers, data centers, and ISPs with a high demand for efficient data transfer.
- Bilateral Agreement: Private peering requires negotiations and agreements between the two parties involved. This agreement outlines the terms, technical specifications, and financial arrangements for the peering connection.
- Cost Considerations: While private peering provides benefits in terms of control and performance, it can involve higher costs due to the need for dedicated infrastructure and cross-connection fees within data centers.
- Redundancy and Resilience: Private peering can contribute to network redundancy and resilience by providing an additional path for traffic in case of failures or congestion in the public internet.
Private peering is particularly beneficial for organizations that prioritize data transfer efficiency, require enhanced security, and have the resources to establish and manage dedicated connections. However, private peering is more resource-intensive and requires ongoing management compared to public peering through an IXP.
It’s worth noting that many organizations use a combination of public and private peering strategies to optimize their network traffic and achieve a balance between cost, control, and performance.