Peering Policy

AVS-IX peering policy for membership eligibility, route server use, and network conduct.

Policy objective

AVS-IX is a neutral internet exchange based in Neocom DC, Skopje. This policy defines the technical and operational requirements for participation, ensures a stable and secure peering fabric, and promotes open interconnection across the region.

Membership eligibility

  • Participants must hold a unique ASN and be legally registered entities or recognized network operators.
  • Participants must have at least one public IPv4 or IPv6 prefix, or be prepared to announce routes through the AVS-IX route server.
  • Connections must be established at Neocom DC in Skopje or through an approved partner connection into the exchange fabric.
  • Participants must agree to follow AVS-IX policies, maintain operational contact information, and provide support contacts for network incidents.

Technical requirements

  • Each participant must run BGP with a unique ASN and maintain accurate origin information.
  • IPv4 and IPv6 sessions are supported. Members are encouraged to establish both.
  • Members must implement prefix filtering and route authorization to prevent invalid route announcements.
  • Members should maintain proper reverse DNS, IRR/PeeringDB entries, and up-to-date network contact data.

Route server

  • AVS-IX operates an IPv4/IPv6 route server to simplify peering and reduce BGP session count.
  • Route server peers must implement prefix filtering, maximum prefix limits, and AS path validation.
  • Participants may use the route server for receiving routes from multiple members while maintaining control over export policy.
  • Route server sessions are intended for peering only; transit via the route server is not permitted.

Bilateral peering

  • Members are encouraged to establish bilateral sessions directly with other participants when mutually beneficial.
  • Bilateral peering should follow standard BGP practices and may be used alongside route server peering.
  • AVS-IX provides contact information to help members negotiate bilateral agreements, but operational responsibility remains with the participants.

Port options and services

  • 10Gbps ports are offered at no monthly port fee for eligible members, subject to available capacity.
  • 25Gbps ports are available at €220 per month.
  • 40Gbps ports are available at €340 per month.
  • 100Gbps ports are available at €750 per month.
  • Cross-connect, cabling or space charges are handled by Neocom DC and are not included in AVS-IX port fees.

Accepted traffic and use

  • Participants may advertise only prefixes they own or are authorized to announce.
  • Deaggregation, prefix hijacking, and unauthorized transit announcements are prohibited.
  • Abuse, DDoS traffic, or traffic that disrupts the exchange fabric may result in immediate suspension.
  • Participants must cooperate with AVS-IX incident response and corrective actions for routing issues.

Policy enforcement

  • AVS-IX may suspend or terminate participation for repeated policy violations or unresolved routing instability.
  • Network operators will receive notification of issues and a reasonable opportunity to remediate before permanent action.
  • In cases of emergency or active abuse, immediate traffic filtering or session suspension may be applied.
  • Disputes are handled through AVS-IX coordination with the involved parties, and the exchange may escalate issues to RIPE NCC if necessary.

Contact

For peering applications, technical questions, or membership support, email [email protected] or use the request form on the Connect page.