A GIX history

The first GIX appeared in the USA at the end of 1980 s, at the same time when the emergence of a global network made no more doubt. At that time, several networks existed: NSFnet (resulting from the antique Arpanet), Uunet, Csnet... The first interconnections were tolerated by the agencies, and quickly supported by the NSF. These interconnections were done on the basis of reciprocity with no cost (peering), because it would have been impossible to do otherwise.

Then the first European networks (SWITCH, EUnet, NORDUnet...) appeared and gathered, in order to create the RIPE : Réseaux IP Européens. Around 1992-1996, Internet became commercial and the needs were increasingly larger. NSFnet, preparing its privatization, contributed to the creation of the first 4 NAPs, which must allow the interconnectivity of the various private networks.

Following that, the European networks must, at their expenses, connect to the American networks, because information lies across the Atlantic. But in 1994, the LINX, first European GIX located in London, is inaugurated. Being used initially as pre and post communications relay with the USA, it becomes a necessary passage for a large number of ISPs.
Quickly, the national initiatives multiplied, and today, each European country has one or more GIX under operation. To reach the list of GIXs in activity, click here.