The Expansion of Internet Usage Remains Unabated
In today's digital age, the internet has become an integral part of both business activities and daily life. A recent study shows that 63% of the world's population uses the internet regularly, a figure that has more than doubled over the past ten years [3]. This surge in internet usage can be attributed to several key factors.
Firstly, the global internet population has grown significantly, with over 68% of the global population online as of 2025 [3]. This growth can be partly attributed to the widespread adoption of mobile devices. In fact, mobile devices, excluding tablets, account for over 62% of global web page views, with Africa leading at over 75% [1].
The digital products industry is also expanding due to increased internet access, driving further demand for online services [3]. The last two years have seen a massive increase in remote work, leading to an increase in internet traffic. High-data-content applications like video conferencing software have seen significant increases during this period.
The rollout of 5G technology is another factor enhancing connectivity speeds and accessibility, supporting higher internet usage [1]. 5G is the first generation of mobile/wireless communications designed to handle advanced business applications, and it is ready to accelerate the adoption of innovative digital technology-based solutions like autonomous cars, smart cities, remote healthcare, and more.
Some estimates put the amount of data generated by the Internet of Things (IoT) at 80 zettabytes [4]. IoT platforms generate vast amounts of data that need to be transmitted, processed, integrated, and stored. The live streaming industry is expected to grow by over $25 billion in the next four years [5], further increasing the demand for robust and efficient internet infrastructure.
In response to these trends, Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) have emerged as crucial structures where all internet players can interconnect with each other. These platforms offer several benefits. For instance, they enable local traffic to stay local, reducing latency and costs by minimizing the need for international routing [2][4]. This localization of traffic is particularly important for regions like Africa, where IXPs have seen significant growth [2].
IXPs also enhance network resilience and robustness, which is essential in developing regions. By peering directly with other networks at IXPs, hosting companies and ISPs can reduce reliance on expensive transit connections, lowering costs for end-users [4]. Furthermore, IXPs improve internet speed and connectivity, facilitating broader access to online services and contributing to the overall growth of internet usage worldwide [2].
MIX, an Italian IXP, offers a connection point between central and southern Europe. MIX's interconnection platform improves network performance, offers greater control over data flow, and reduces latency and IP transit costs [2]. Their peering services are available for more information upon contacting their team.
As the internet becomes increasingly central to business activities and daily life, the role of IXPs in supporting efficient and cost-effective internet usage cannot be overstated. With their ability to localize traffic, improve resilience, reduce costs, and enhance connectivity, IXPs are key to meeting the growing demands of the digital age.
References: [1] https://www.statista.com/topics/1114/5g-networks/ [2] https://www.mix-ix.net/ [3] https://www.statista.com/topics/1178/internet-usage/ [4] https://www.apnic.net/services/community/ixp/benefits [5] https://www.statista.com/statistics/1004315/live-streaming-market-size/
Sports streaming platforms are experiencing growth as a result of increased internet access, fueled by the wider adoption of technology and the rapid rollout of 5G. Data-and-cloud-computing solutions in sports are becoming more reliant on internet infrastructure to transmit, process, and store vast amounts of player statistics and performance data.
In several developing regions, Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are helping to improve network resilience, localize traffic, and reduce costs for end-users. This localization is crucial for regions like Africa, where IXPs have seen significant growth and are playing a key role in the expansion of the digital products industry and the overall growth of internet usage worldwide.
