Tactic 6. Transitional Paid Peering

In this tactic (Figure 11-16), Paid Peering is positioned as a “stepping stone” toward the ultimate goal of settlement-free peering between two parties.

As a stepping stone, the router configurations, exchange point arrangements, and all peering interconnections logistics proceed as if it were a settlement-free peering arrangement. A settlement fee is paid every month until the peering prerequisites are met. Once the peering prerequisites are met, settlement fees are no longer required and free peering is established. It is important to note that over the years, there have been only a few completed transitions to free peering.