OT-
Eric, for the sake of clarity let me modify one of my previous statements for preciseness.
Earlier, I stated that ATHM didn't peer like the other ISPs. By this I meant that they don't allow other SPs to use their backbone network for "transiting" purposes on a "through" basis. Evidence of this can be seen by doing a traceroute if you are not an ATHM user. You will not find your packets going into and out of the ATHM backbone net, as you would, say, MCI's or UUnet's.
They "do" engage in route peering with others, but only on the exterior of their VPN, once passed their border gateways, for purposes that suit their own needs. For example, from their gateways they will peer with other providers in order to reach the regional network access points, or NAPs, and to other exchange points so that they have a path to allow ATHM users to access other points on the 'net, and vice versa. But to the best of my knowledge they do not allow transiting, from what I can see. Corrections welcome.
Frank |
