Once live, the new IPX Exchange will enable mobile carriers, content delivery networks, cloud players and internet service providers with the ability to interconnect and exchange Ethernet traffic and roaming traffic, using MPLS between their networks.
Speaking to TradeArabia, Ali Amiri, the chief carrier and wholesale officer for the Etisalat Group, said: "The launch of the first IPX Exchange is an achievement as it sets a benchmark for Etisalat and the industry. The exchange will give our customers a high quality service in terms of flexibility of speed and accessibility."
In addition, the new IPX will support Etisalat’s SmartHub product, which is a solution for carriers and content providers which require interconnectivity and reliable infrastructure in the Middle East. It also provides high levels of security and operational reliably said the company.
"The IPX Exchange will add value to the SmartHub data centre’s services and to our customers by providing them with better connectivity and a reliable platform, also adding new facility to the existing platforms at United States, Europe and Singapore," explained Amiri.
Adding that SmartHub has been powered by many sources, including: submarine systems, capacity structuring, and IX. The latest IPX Exchange platform will power SmartHub to also serve mobile carrier operators
"SmartHub provides regional access for global service providers and global access to the internet for the region. It also includes the Middle East’s first IPX Exchange for mobile operators and includes the region’s largest portfolio," said Amiri.
In other news, Etisalat subsidiary E-Marine recently restored service to its 10,000km sub-Saharan Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy) that runs along the length of Africa’s east coast which had previously been damaged and lost connection.