FlexEthernet – Knowledgebase

What can I use FlexEthernet for?

FlexEthernet is designed for organizations that need flexible Layer 2 connectivity between locations, infrastructure or other networks.

Common use cases include:

• Connecting multiple locations
• Connecting to other organizations
• Building Flexible network architectures
• Supporting redundant network designs
• Consolidating connectivity

Can I use FlexEthernet to connect directly to another organization?

Yes, FlexEthernet can be used to establish Layer 2 connectivity between different organizations through the inter.link platform. Instead of using a new physical connection for every organization customers want to reach, participating organizations can use inter.link to establish connectivity through their existing inter.link infrastructure.

For supported organizations, the connection process can be automated via the inter.link portal, helping to reduce time and operational effort traditionally associated with establishing direct interconnections.

Why use FlexEthernet instead of arranging individual cross connects?

Traditional interconnection can involve coordinating physical infrastructure, cross connects and multiple providers which can make establishing new connections time consuming and complex. FlexEthernet provides a software driven alternative across the inter.link network. Once connected to inter.link, customers can use existing infrastructure to establish Ethernet services without deploying a new physical connection for every service or organization they desire to reach.

Who is FlexEthernet designed for?

FlexEthernet is designed for organizations that need scalable and flexible Layer 2 connectivity without building separate physical infrastructure for every connection.

It is particularly relevant for:

• IPS and Network Operators
• Content and Digital Platforms
• Cloud and Hosting Providers
• Enterprise organizations requiring private Layer 2 connectivity
• Organizations with growing interconnection requirements

Can you connect more than two locations with FlexEthernet?

Yes, FlexEthernet supports connectivity between two or more endpoints across the inter.link network. This allows customers to create a Layer 2 service spanning multiple locations rather than managing a service for every individual connection.

Bandwidth can also be configured independently for each endpoint, providing flexibility when locations have different capacity requirements.

How quickly can FlexEthernet be provisioned?

FlexEthernet is designed around inter.link’s automated provisioning model. For on-net locations, FlexEthernet can we provisioned in under 48 hours, reducing lead times associated with traditional carrier connectivity. The service can be ordered and managed via the inter.link portal.

Do I need a new Inter.link portal for every FlexEthernet service?

No. FlexEthernet can be delivered alongside other inter.link services over an existing eligible inter.link port. This allows customers to add new FlexEthernet connections without necessarily deploying additional physical infrastructure each time. If you don’t already have the required inter.link connectivity, a port can be ordered as part of the service.

What are the benefits of FlexEthernet?

FlexEthernet combines flexible Layer 2 connectivity with the automation and and transparency of the inter.link platform.

Key benefits include:

• Flexible connectivity
• Connect to other organizations
• Use existing infrastructure
• Automated provisioning
• Flexible bandwidth
• Built in path redundancy
• Adapt as your network changes

How is FlexEthernet priced?

FlexEthernet uses fixed -bandwidth pricing rather than usage -based billing. Pricing consists of the inter.link port and FlexEthernet service fees. Because ports and services are separated, multiple eligible services can share the same physical inter.link port. When connecting to another organization, that organization may apply its own connectivity or service charges. Any applicable third party charges are separate from the interlink FlexEthernet pricing. Inter.link does not control them or have any influence over these charges.

How do I get started with FlexEthernet?

FlexEthernet can be ordered and managed through the inter.link portal. Whether customers need to connect multiple locations, establish connectivity with another organization or simplify an increasingly complex network architecture, FlexEthernet provides a flexible, scalable way to build Layer 2 connectivity across the inter.link network. Talk to our team to find out whether FlexEthernet is right for your organization.