It is a service that allows Internet traffic to travel across multiple interconnected networks to reach its destination. Here's how it works:

  • Networks and the Internet: The Internet is not a single network but a group of interconnected networks. To connect to devices around the world, data is broken down into packets and transmitted over these networks before being reassembled at the final destination.

  • Definition of IP traversal: IP traversal is a service provided by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). It allows traffic to flow through an ISP's network to reach the rest of the Internet. Essentially, an IP Transit customer pays the provider for access to the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) end-to-end Internet routing table.

  • Autonomous Systems (AS): An autonomous system (AS) represents an Internet service provider (ISP) or large organization with independent connections to other networks. Each AS has a unique registered autonomous system number (ASN) to connect to. Only those running their own AS (with a designated ASN) are eligible for IP Transit service.

  • Border Gateway Protocol (BGP): IP Transit relies on BGP. ASes use BGP to announce reachability information, including IP addresses. BGP determines the best path for data packets, directing them to their destination across the Internet.

In summary, IP Transit enables end-users to cross an ISP’s network and access the entire Internet via BGP-based routing.

What is IP Transit?

Benefits of using IP Transit:

  • Global Reach: IP Transit allows your network to connect to the entire Internet, reaching users and services worldwide. It provides access to a vast network of interconnected Autonomous Systems (ASes).

  • Reliability: By leveraging multiple Tier 1 ISPs, IP Transit ensures redundancy and high availability. If one provider experiences issues, traffic can be rerouted through alternative paths.

  • Scalability: As your network grows, IP Transit can accommodate increased traffic demands. You can adjust bandwidth capacity as needed without major infrastructure changes.

  • Low Latency: Direct access to Tier 1 ISPs minimizes latency, resulting in faster data transmission. This is crucial for applications like video streaming, online gaming, and real-time communication.

  • Quality of Service (QoS): IP Transit providers often offer QoS features, allowing you to prioritize critical traffic (such as VoIP or video conferencing) over less time-sensitive data.

  • Cost-effective: Instead of building and maintaining your global network, IP Transit lets you leverage existing infrastructure. This can be more cost-effective than establishing direct peer relationships with multiple ASes.