The network of our upstream provider is the Global NAPs Network (GNAPs). The
routers in the datacenter are actually
GNAPs core networking routers. Our location is connected by multiple Gigabit-Ethernet
connections out to the Reston, VA datacenter
and to the Equinix-Ashburn facility. There, they peer with many networks and
transit from many other networks (including Qwest, GlobalCrossing, and others).
Most of the network is based on 8 x OC-48 (DWDM on IRU Fiber),
which translates to about 20 Gbps throughput capability.
The connections GNAPs has with other providers dwarfs the connectivity most of our competitors have. With our provider only using 30% of the pipes between the datacenter and their distribution facility, it will be a long time before an upgrade on their end is required. However, they are currently planning to diversify by adding separate connections out to other providers throughout 2003 and 2004. This action will only make a already great network product even better.
GNAPs is a true Tier-1 national backbone. It leverages the National Fiber Optic Backbone to provide inter-city bandwidth that begins at the OC-48 level and has no appreciable upper limit. In addition to 13 hub cities and more than 60 non-hub "on-net" markets, it also has extensive peering relationships with other network providers.