The Hidden Backbone of the Internet: Why IXPs Must Be Protected as Critical Infrastructure
Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are the invisible hubs that allow global networks to exchange traffic efficiently, reducing costs, lowering latency, and improving reliability for billions of users. Despite their indispensable role in keeping the digital world running, IXPs are often absent from critical infrastructure protection plans, leaving a major vulnerability in global connectivity. Recent internet outages in Portugal and Spain highlight how nations with stronger IXP footprints fare better during crises, underscoring the urgent need for policymakers to act.
Flavio Luciani, CTO of Namex, warns that IXPs face systemic risks such as traffic centralization, dependence of smaller ISPs, and uneven governance standards. He calls for IXPs to be embedded in cybersecurity strategies, resilience frameworks, and disaster preparedness initiatives. By recognizing IXPs as critical infrastructure and supporting them with transparent governance and shared incident response mechanisms, governments can strengthen digital sovereignty and future‑proof the internet against growing threats.
#IXP #InternetExchange #CriticalInfrastructure #NetworkResilience #DigitalSovereignty #CyberSecurity #Connectivity #Peering #InternetInfrastructure #ISOC #DataTraffic #TechPolicy #Telecom #GlobalConnectivity #CyberResilience #DisasterPreparedness #NetworkSecurity #InternetGovernance #DigitalInfrastructure #BGP #InternetBackbone #ResilientNetworks #TechPolicy #CyberAwareness #FutureProofInternet #TelecomPolicy #NetworkOperators #InfrastructureResilience #InternetReliability #GlobalInternet
