Global Infrastructure for DCN

The Global DCN infrastructure consists of independent networks that interoperate using the IDC (Inter-Domain Control) Protocol and are monitored by perfSONAR-DCN. Networks have direct physical connections (e.g. connections between the Internet2 DCN and ESnet SDN in Chicago and NY). Other networks connect at Exchange Points (such as MAN LAN, Starlight or Netherlight) where the exchange point is able to switch circuits between networks connected to the exchange point. 

Some exchange points are “policy neutral GOLES” where policy neutral means that the exchange point will make any connection that both networks agree on, and GOLE (Global Optical Lambda Exchange) is the name the GLIF organization gives Lambda Exchange Points.