Cologix, a network neutral interconnection and colocation company, announced that the Quebec Internet Exchange (QIX) has deployed its core node in Cologix’s facility at 1250 Rene Levesque in support of its recently launched peering exchange. The peering point will enable a new era in interconnection in Quebec by enabling streamlined, settlement-free peering relationships, says the company.
In connection with this launch, Cologix recently introduced the Standard Connections product in Montreal, which is a tailor-made product that provides a low cost point of presence in 1250 Rene Levesque to access the QIX as well as the Cologix Meet-Me-Room. The QIX is a non-profit association, led by some of the largest names in the Quebec Internet community with broad support from public and private sector stakeholders.
“With access to eight million Quebec residents, and with 2-plus million households with fixed line broadband subscriptions, Montreal is the natural home for the new Quebec Internet Exchange,” said Sylvie LaPerriere, Chairperson of the QIX and Program Manager for Peering and Content Distribution at Google. “QIX represents a critical step towards creating a more robust domestic Internet, not just in Quebec, but across Canada.”
For QIX members, the new exchange point will:
- Reduce IP transit costs, thanks to settlement-free or cost-free peering arrangements between the members of QIX, which includes Internet service providers and other corporate and public sector partners throughout Quebec;
- Improve performance and reduce costs for consumers by keeping traffic local without round tripping to exchanges in Toronto or New York;
- Provide close proximity to the European cable landing stations in Halifax; and
- Allow service providers and other private and public sector partners to establish new peering relationships with low administrative burdens.
Cologix partnered with QIX throughout the organization process and is providing space and power on a long term basis.
“Cologix is thrilled to support the QIX launch. Based on our experience with exchanges in Toronto (TORIX) and Minneapolis (MICE), we are strong believers that the independent, association model leads to strong credibility within the peering community,” said Roger Brulotte, Cologix Montreal General Manager. “We have high expectations that QIX will get off to a fast start and look forward to providing easy access for prospective members through our Standard Connections product.”
