In today’s connected world, the way data moves matters more than ever. Businesses, service providers, and content platforms all rely on efficient, low-latency pathways to deliver the experiences their customer’s demand. At the heart of Michigan’s growing digital infrastructure is the Detroit Internet Exchange (DET-iX)—a nonprofit, carrier-neutral, fee-free Internet Exchange Point hosted by 123NET in Southfield.

DET-iX has quickly become one of the largest free-to-join internet exchanges in the world, empowering organizations to peer directly, reduce costs, and improve performance. With new technology upgrades and a rapidly growing ecosystem, now is the perfect time to understand why so many networks are connecting to DET-iX.

Zero-Cost Membership, Unlimited Potential

Unlike many other exchanges, DET-iX operates with no membership fees, no port fees, and no traffic charges. If your organization controls an ASN and IP address space, you can connect for free. This makes DET-iX one of the most accessible IXPs worldwide, lowering the barriers for participation and encouraging a diverse range of networks to join.

Cutting Costs While Boosting Performance

Peering at DET-iX allows members to bypass traditional upstream transit providers and keep local traffic local. That means fewer hops, lower latency, and a more reliable internet experience for end users. Many members report saving thousands of dollars per month by reducing their reliance on costly transit.

For businesses that rely on real-time applications like streaming, cloud services, gaming, or video conferencing, the performance improvements are immediate and measurable.

Built for Scalability and Reliability

DET-iX isn’t just free, it’s powerful. Members have access to port speeds ranging from 1G all the way up to 400G and beyond, giving networks room to grow without limitations. The exchange also offers route servers, which simplify peering by allowing participants to establish one connection instead of managing dozens of separate BGP sessions.

This flexibility, combined with redundant connections and diverse peering options, ensures that DET-iX members benefit from both scalability and network resilience.

A Community of Global and Local Players

Joining DET-iX means becoming part of a vibrant community that includes ISPs, content providers, academic institutions, enterprises, and major global platforms. Companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft already peer here, alongside regional providers and Michigan-based enterprises.

DET-iX isn’t just about connecting networks, it’s about connecting people, industries, and communities across the state. By keeping traffic exchange within Michigan, DET-iX strengthens the local internet ecosystem while ensuring businesses and residents alike benefit from faster, more reliable connectivity.

Powered by State-of-the-Art Infrastructure

In August 2025, DET-iX announced a major infrastructure upgrade with the deployment of Arista Networks’ 7060X5 series switches. These high-performance platforms bring 12.8 Tbps per device, ultra-low latency, and massive scalability to the exchange, ensuring it’s ready for the growing demands of Michigan’s digital economy.

This upgrade means DET-iX is not only keeping pace with growth, it’s positioning itself as a future-ready hub for internet connectivity.

A Mission-Driven, Nonprofit Exchange

As a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization, DET-iX is governed by a volunteer board and focused entirely on strengthening Michigan’s digital backbone—not generating profit. That mission-driven approach ensures every investment, upgrade, and initiative directly benefits members and the communities they serve.

How to Join

Becoming a member is straightforward. Organizations need:

  • Control of an ASN and IP space (/24 or larger)
  • Network access to one of DET-iX’s supported data centers
  • An active entry in PeeringDB

The Future of Connectivity Starts Here

As data demands continue to grow, DET-iX offers a unique opportunity for organizations to take control of their connectivity. With zero cost, high performance, and a community-driven mission, the Detroit Internet Exchange is powering the next chapter of Michigan’s digital transformation.

For businesses, content providers, and service operators looking to reduce costs, improve performance, and join a thriving ecosystem of peers, DET-iX is more than just an option-it’s the future of local connectivity.

For more details, learn more at detroitix.com.