The ABC has agreed to peer via PIPE Networks, improving access to its vast content for Australian broadband users.

PIPE Networks operates peering points in 6 major cities, where ISPs can connect to each other at a common point for minimal cost. If an ISP cannot access content using a peering point such as that provided by PIPE, it must use expensive 'transit' bandwidth.

Advantages to peering arrangements include faster access and lower costs for both sides. Some popular ISPs such as iiNet, Netspace and WestNet even exclude peered data from usage meters for their customers.

Attempts to get ABC to peer have been going on for some time, with PIPE Networks laying fibre at their own cost to ABC premises in the hope that they would agree to connect it to their network. Whirlpool readers also sent numerous emails and letters to ABC management encouraging them to peer. PIPE expects the peering arrangement to start in around two month's time.

The quest is not over however, with large networks such as AARNet still out of reach of peering services (Update: AARNet has recently published their peering policy, which may lead to future peering opportunities). Additionally, the four largest ISPs in Australia refuse to peer with anyone but themselves, earning them the nickname 'The Gang of Four'.

Links:

• ABC peering aids small ISPs  (Australian IT, 6 Jul 2004)
• Agile fights 'Gang of Four' over unfair peering  (Whirlpool, 16 Jun 2003)
• Singtel Optus pulls plug on WAIX peering  (Whirlpool, 10 May 2003)
• Top four ISPs put on notice  (Whirlpool, 21 Feb 2003)