A major development in European Internet infrastructure is taking shape as AMS-IX, one of the world’s largest Internet Exchanges, expands its Cross-IX service to facilitate easier and more efficient network interconnection across the continent. The Cross-IX initiative, developed through strategic collaboration with MIX in Milan and Netnod IX in Stockholm, now enables AMS-IX members and customers to peer with hundreds of networks across multiple European hubs via a single connection.
With the latest phase of Cross-IX now live, AMS-IX users can route outbound traffic from Amsterdam directly to MIX and Netnod, enhancing network reach and efficiency in both the Italian and Nordic markets. The move simplifies interconnection by eliminating the need for additional hardware or transport arrangements and allows access to multiple exchanges using a single VLAN and contract. This streamlining is particularly significant for service providers, enterprises, and network operators managing diverse routing strategies across European markets.
According to AMS-IX CEO Peter van Burgel, the initiative marks an important step forward for regional connectivity. He described the launch of the second phase of Cross-IX as a pivotal moment in creating a more accessible, scalable internet landscape in Europe. “With our reliable partners MIX and Netnod, we can now offer our members and customers a one-stop-shop solution. This makes it easier than ever to connect to hundreds of ASNs across the region,” said Peter van Burgel. He emphasized AMS-IX’s commitment to continuing the expansion of Cross-IX in the future.
European IXPs
From the perspective of partner IXPs, the expanded service would be equally promising. Karin Ahl, CEO of Netnod, highlighted the simplification of network interconnection into the Nordic region. “We’re making it simpler than ever for networks to connect to the Nordic peering hub by allowing direct connections from AMS-IX to Netnod IX Stockholm,” she said, underlining the operational benefits for customers seeking to extend their reach into Northern Europe.
Alessandro Talotta, executive president and chairman of MIX, expressed similar enthusiasm. “The cooperation between European IXPs is strengthened by this business agreement, which benefits each of our clients,” said Mr. Talotta. He pointed to growing demand for interconnection services across Italy, noting that MIX’s expansion, including its new DC3 facility at the Caldera campus in Milan, will further accelerate this growth.
The three organizations behind the Cross-IX initiative would bring significant infrastructure and expertise to the partnership. Netnod IX, a key Internet Exchange in the Nordics, plays a crucial role in supporting Internet stability across the region. Known for services including DNS, root server operations, time distribution, and interconnection, Netnod is wholly owned by the TU Foundation (Stiftelsen för Telematikens utveckling), and operates as a neutral, non-profit provider. Founded in 1996, Netnod’s reputation would be rooted in its technical leadership and its long-standing contribution to Internet resilience in the Nordics and beyond.
MIX, meanwhile, is Italy’s largest IXP and among Europe’s top-tier interconnection platforms. Based at Milan’s Caldera campus, MIX supports more than 420 Italian and international networks with scalable and secure services. Its infrastructure consistently handles daily traffic peaks exceeding 3 Tbps. As the first Italian IXP certified under ISO 27001:2013 for information security, and a recipient of Open-IX OIX-1 certification, MIX demonstrates a commitment to rigorous security and operational excellence. Additionally, MIX is a founding member of Open Hub Med, Italy’s first neutral interconnection point for bridging Mediterranean and Northern European networks.
AMS-IX, founded over 30 years ago, has established itself as a cornerstone of the global internet, operating platforms that serve internet service providers, telecom operators, content providers, and cloud platforms. Its primary exchange in Amsterdam handles over 14 Tbps in peak traffic and interconnects more than 1,000 IP networks globally. Known for its efficiency, low latency, and high reliability, AMS-IX also operates the world’s first mobile peering points, including the Global Roaming Exchange (GRX), Mobile Data Exchange (MDX), and Internetwork Packet Exchange (I-IPX).
The expansion of the Cross-IX service is more than a technical upgrade – it is a strategic initiative to improve the efficiency, flexibility, and accessibility of European internet infrastructure. By reducing the complexity of cross-border peering and offering unified management through a single interface, the service addresses key challenges faced by network operators operating in multiple markets. As demand for low-latency, high-capacity connectivity continues to rise across sectors – from cloud and content delivery to enterprise and mobile services – the ability to simplify regional interconnection would become a key competitive advantage.
