Exploring the Regulatory Conditions of Internet Interconnection – A Survey Among Internet Interconnection Professionals

Abstract

There is no central feature of the internet that has been subject to as little formal regulation as internet interconnection. However, local public regulation is starting to emerge – be it through disclosure regulations, mandatory peering or licensing terms. Due to the networked nature of the internet, local rules may acquire a global scope. This report presents an initial overview about what kind of formal regulation networkers encounter in their professional practice and it provides insights into how this regulation affects internet connectivity.

Keywords: internet interconnection, regulation, peering, internet exchange point (IXP), infrastructure, competition law, standards, transparency, basic rights, licensing, universal service