From data to defense: The global impact of Continental Internet Exchanges

Global Watch | 2025-09-25

In today's digital age, robust internet infrastructure is not just a convenience, it is a necessity for national defense, economic growth and improving the quality of life for average citizens.

Continental Internet Exchanges (CIX) are emerging as transformative tools, enhancing connectivity, fostering innovation and strengthening security across Africa, South America, Asia and the Indo-Pacific region. This editorial explores how specific examples of CIX initiatives are reshaping lives and bolstering national defense in these regions.

Building independence and security through CIX in Africa

The African Union's CIX represents a bold step toward digital independence and security. With over 100,000km of fiber-optic cables and 47 data centers across major cities, the CIX consolidates internet traffic locally, reducing reliance on Western tech giants.

The African Digital Protocol (ADP) prioritizes local languages and perspectives, ensuring that Africa's digital ecosystem reflects its cultural diversity. From a national defense perspective, the CIX enhances communication and coordination among defense forces.

For example, in Nigeria, improved connectivity allows security agencies to monitor and respond to terrorist threats more effectively. By keeping internet traffic within the continent, the CIX reduces vulnerabilities associated with external data routing, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure.

In Rwanda, the government's investment in ICT infrastructure, including a 4G LTE network covering over 95% of the population, has revolutionized access to education and healthcare. Telemedicine platforms now reach rural areas, while online learning tools bridge educational gaps. These advancements not only improve citizens' lifestyles, but also create a digitally literate workforce capable of supporting national defense and economic growth.

IX.br powers progress and protection in South America

Brazil's IX.br is is one of the largest and most developed internet exchange platforms in South America, with over 30 sites facilitating efficient local traffic exchange. This infrastructure reduces latency, strengthens Brazil's position as a digital hub and enhances national security.

For instance, faster and more reliable internet allows Brazil's military to coordinate disaster response efforts and monitor border regions more effectively. The BELLA Program, funded by the European Union, further enhances digital connectivity between Europe and Latin America by using the high-speed EllaLink submarine cable.

By supporting research and education networks, this initiative fosters collaboration and reduces reliance on external networks. For example, in Argentina, universities now collaborate seamlessly with European institutions, enabling innovation in fields like cybersecurity and defense technology.

In Chile, the Patagonia IXP (PATIX), located in the remote region of Punta Arenas, is a lifeline for local communities and national defense. By enabling low-latency traffic exchange, PATIX supports small businesses and improves access to essential services. Additionally, it strengthens communication networks in remote areas, ensuring that emergency response teams can act swiftly during natural disasters or security threats.

Asia's internet revolution, from DE-CIX to BRI

India's partnership with DE-CIX has established internet exchanges in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai, significantly improving internet speeds and reducing latency for local traffic. This infrastructure supports India's growing digital ecosystem, including new market entrants like Starlink.

From a defense perspective, enhanced connectivity allows India's armed forces to coordinate operations more effectively, particularly in remote border regions. Thailand's Bangkok Neutral Internet Exchange (BKNIX) has also strengthened the country's digital infrastructure since its launch in 2014.

With a second exchange point in Chiang Mai, BKNIX has improved connectivity for businesses and consumers alike. For Thailand's national defense, this infrastructure ensures secure communication channels, enabling rapid response to security threats and natural disasters.

Regional infrastructure initiatives, while often focused on physical development, increasingly include significant investments in digital connectivity. By linking Asia, Africa and Europe, these projects enhance trade, foster economic integration and bolster regional security. For example, improved connectivity in Kazakhstan enables the government to monitor and secure critical infrastructure more effectively.

Bosting defense through digital infrastructure in Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific region is witnessing a surge in internet exchange initiatives that enhance connectivity and strengthen national defense. In Australia, investments in digital infrastructure ensure that defense forces can communicate securely and respond to threats in real time. Similarly, New Zealand's internet exchanges support disaster response efforts, ensuring that emergency services can act swiftly during crises.

Countries like Malaysia and Singapore are leveraging internet exchanges to strengthen their digital ecosystems. For instance, Malaysia's DE-CIX Kuala Lumpur connects local businesses to global networks, fostering innovation and economic growth. From a defense perspective, these exchanges ensure secure communication channels, reducing vulnerabilities associated with external data routing.

Internet exchanges are changing lives and securing nations

The true value of CIEs lies in their dual impact on citizens' lifestyles and national defense. In Africa, a young entrepreneur in Nairobi can now launch a tech startup without the prohibitive costs of international data routing, while security agencies in Nigeria can monitor terrorist activities more effectively.

In Brazil, a small business owner in São Paulo can access global markets with ease, while the military can coordinate disaster response efforts seamlessly. In India, a student in a remote village can attend online classes, gaining access to world-class education, while the armed forces can secure border regions with enhanced communication networks.

These projects are not just about technology, they are about people and security. By improving connectivity, they create opportunities, reduce inequalities and strengthen national defense capabilities.

As nations continue to prioritize digital infrastructure, the potential for innovation, development and security will only grow, paving the way for a more connected and resilient future.

CIEs are more than just technical achievements, they are catalysts for social and economic transformation and national security. By prioritizing local needs, fostering innovation and enhancing defense capabilities, these initiatives are paving the way for a safer, more connected, and prosperous world.

The road ahead is long, but with continued investment and collaboration, the benefits of these "digital highways" will reach every corner of the globe.