We've identified two stages of support for the Mentor-IX program:
Stage 1: Normalisation
Stage 2: Advanced
Stage 1
Helping newly established exchange points with the following:
Tools
Framework for management and business development
Assistance in adhering to the IX-F BCPs for IXP operations
Measurable
working website, with contact detail, members list and traffic stats if appropriate
verified contacts
self fund attendance at IXPA meeting
presentation of their success or challenges at an IXPA meeting
have a working set of management tools
IXPDB entry
Bi-annual update to local IXPA
Support available in local languages for IXP participants
Stage 2
This IXP may be going into the next phase of development or may have run into some unexpected problems, it is expected the IXP to have been operational for 2+ years:
design and engineering help as needed
marketing support
implementing additional services
Measurable
independently host IXP participant meeting
emergence of additional services, eg. reseller programs, offer vlan support, host a root server
be self sustaining
be in a position to support future emerging exchanges
Bi-annual update to local IXPA
Criteria for donor
an established IXP
keen to support the development and growth of IXPs
Criteria for the IXP in need
have named representatives to liaise with the donor IXP
be active in the IXP community, i.e. active in relevant IXPA fora
Benefits of the Mentor-IX program
Expose engineers to problems they may not find in their own enviroment, which encourages learning
Use of standard documentation and training material
Encourage IXPs to follow IX-F BCPs
Make the internet faster and reliable in IXP in needs market
Marketing and commercial kudos
Feel good factor, helping out because you can!
We want to fund the program via donations, to cover:
Travel expenses for staff exchange and training
IXPA forum attendance
Logistics i.e. shipping hardware
If you're interested in donating to the program or want to get involved, Contact us.
