What is a Tier 2 Internet Network?

A Tier 2 Internet Network is a category of Internet Service Provider (ISP) that holds an intermediate position within the hierarchy of internet infrastructure. These networks serve as regional or national ISPs, connecting end-users and businesses to the broader internet. They play a significant part in facilitating internet access and data transmission within specific geographic areas. Tier 2 networks typically engage in peering arrangements, establish their own autonomous systems, and may purchase internet transit services to connect to the global internet. 

Dissecting Tier 2 Internet Network

The concept of tiered Internet service providers (ISPs) naturally evolved as the Internet expanded from its origins in research projects like ARPANET in the late 1960s. This tiered structure, emerging organically rather than being formally established, reflected the varied roles different ISPs played in the global internet ecosystem.

Tier 2 Internet Networks, created to meet regional or national connectivity needs, emerged as intermediaries between the larger, global Tier 1 networks and the smaller, local Tier 3 networks. Their development was driven by the demand for internet services within specific geographic areas, aiming to reduce reliance on Tier 1 providers for internet access. 

These networks were established by organizations or companies possessing the necessary technical infrastructure and resources. Investments were made in network equipment, data centers, and internet exchange points, facilitating connections with other ISPs. The growth and evolution of Tier 2 networks were characterized by organic expansion, as well as mergers and acquisitions in the telecommunications industry.

Tier 2 Network Architecture

The architecture of Tier 2 Internet Networks, as with other tiers in the Internet hierarchy, is complex and involves a variety of technical components and interconnections. This architecture facilitates their role in bridging the connectivity between Tier 1 (global backbone providers) and Tier 3 (local internet service providers) networks. 

Core Components of Tier 2 Network Architecture

• Network Nodes: These are the physical locations where the network's equipment is housed. This includes data centers, server farms, and exchange points. They are strategically located for optimal connectivity to other networks and to the users they serve.
• Routing Infrastructure: Tier 2 networks have sophisticated routing infrastructure composed of high-capacity routers and switches. These devices direct internet traffic efficiently across the network, managing the data flow both within the network and to/from other networks.
• Peering Arrangements: Central to Tier 2 architecture are peering arrangements with other ISPs, both at the same tier and with Tier 1 providers. These arrangements are facilitated through Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) where different ISPs physically connect their networks and exchange traffic.
• Transit Connections: Besides peering, Tier 2 networks also purchase transit from Tier 1 networks. This involves connecting to the Tier 1 network at designated interconnection points and paying for the data transported over these networks.
• Backbone Links: These are high-speed, high-capacity connections that form the core of the network, connecting different nodes and data centers. These backbone links are crucial for ensuring fast and reliable data transfer across long distances.
• Redundancy and Resilience Mechanisms: To ensure uninterrupted service, Tier 2 networks incorporate redundancy at various levels, including multiple pathways for data, backup power supplies, and disaster recovery systems.

Supplementary Elements

• Content Delivery Networks (CDNs): Many Tier 2 ISPs also integrate CDNs into their architecture. CDNs are networks of servers that cache content closer to users to improve access speed and reduce latency.
• Customer Access Networks: This aspect of the architecture extends to the end-users, including businesses, institutions, and local ISPs. It often involves a mix of technologies like fiber optics, broadband, and wireless connections.
• Network Management Systems: These are software systems used to monitor, control, and manage network resources. They play a critical role in ensuring network efficiency, security, and reliability.
• Security Infrastructure: Cybersecurity measures are integral, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and data encryption. This infrastructure protects the network and its users from cyber threats.
• Support for Various Protocols and Services: Tier 2 networks support a range of protocols (like IP, MPLS) and services (like VPNs, VoIP, and cloud services), catering to the diverse needs of their customers.

Interplay with Other Tiers

• Interaction with Tier 1 Networks: For areas not covered by their peering agreements, Tier 2 networks rely on Tier 1 networks for wider Internet access.
• Supporting Tier 3 Networks: Tier 2 networks often sell bandwidth and network services to smaller, local ISPs (Tier 3), facilitating their connectivity to the broader Internet.

Tier 2 ISPs (Internet Service Providers)

Tier 2 Internet Service Providers (ISPs) encompass a diverse group of companies and organizations that provide regional or national internet connectivity:

• Cogent Communications: Based in the United States, Cogent is known for providing internet access and data transport services to businesses. They have an extensive network of fiber-optic infrastructure.
• Level 3 Communications (now part of CenturyLink/Lumen Technologies): Originally a Tier 1 provider, the merger with CenturyLink, which was a Tier 2 provider, has created a more complex categorization. They offer a range of services including cloud solutions, voice, and content delivery.
• Telia Company: A European telecommunications company, Telia operates extensively in Nordic and Baltic countries. They offer internet services, IT solutions, and television services.
• Sprint Corporation (now part of T-Mobile US): Prior to its merger with T-Mobile, Sprint was considered a major Tier 2 ISP in the United States, offering wireless services and internet connectivity.
• Shaw Communications: Based in Canada, Shaw provides broadband internet, cable television, and telephone services, primarily serving Western Canada.
• iiNet: An Australian internet service provider offering a range of services including broadband, mobile telephony, and VoIP.
• Reliance Communications: An Indian Internet service provider, part of the Reliance Group, offering a wide range of telecommunications services.
• BT Global Services: A division of BT Group in the UK, providing telecommunications services to corporate and government entities worldwide.
• Tata Communications: Part of the Indian conglomerate Tata Group, offering a broad portfolio of internet services, including connectivity and cloud solutions.
• Deutsche Telekom: While primarily a Tier 1 provider, some of its operations, especially in certain regions, function more like a Tier 2 ISP.

Each of these companies plays a significant role in their respective regional markets and often globally, providing crucial internet services to both end-users and smaller ISPs. Their services and network capabilities can vary widely, reflecting the dynamic nature of the telecommunications industry. Keep in mind that mergers, acquisitions, and market changes can rapidly alter the landscape of internet service providers, potentially reclassifying a company from one tier to another.