Connecting Britain to the world

Jennifer Holmes, CEO, LINX 

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The London Internet Exchange (LINX) is one of the world’s leading internet exchange points (IXPs), playing a pivotal role in how data moves across the UK and far beyond. Established in 1994, LINX has grown from a small collective of early internet pioneers into a globally recognised industry leader, connecting hundreds of networks and enabling fast, resilient and cost‑effective digital communication. Today, LINX operates multiple interconnection hubs not only in London, but also across the UK – including Manchester, Scotland and Wales – as well as international exchanges in the US and Africa.

 

At its core, an internet exchange point is where networks come together to hand off traffic efficiently. Instead of routing data across long, expensive or indirect paths, an IXP allows internet service providers, cloud platforms, content delivery networks, enterprises and mobile operators to interconnect directly. This reduces latency, improves performance and increases reliability for millions of end-users who may never realise how important these behind‑the‑scenes exchanges are to their online experience. Whether it’s streaming a film, joining a video call, uploading content or using cloud services, an IXP helps make it faster and smoother.

 

LINX is widely celebrated for its technical excellence and commitment to a “neutral, mutually‑owned” membership model. This means the organisation is owned by the very networks it serves, ensuring community‑driven governance and reinvestment that continually strengthens the UK’s digital infrastructure. LINX’s work supports both domestic innovation and the UK’s position as a global interconnection hub – one of the many reasons it has been recognised as part of the Best of British Business 2026.

 

This recognition highlights not just operational excellence but also the organisation’s leadership in championing open interconnection, improving digital resilience and expanding opportunities for communities across the country. Under the guidance of CEO Jennifer Holmes, LINX has sharpened its focus on sustainable growth, diversity in the digital ecosystem and strategic expansion in new markets.

 

In an interview with Business Reporter, LINX CEO Jennifer Holmes explores what this accolade means for the organisation, how it continues to evolve in a rapidly changing digital landscape, and why interconnection remains foundational to the UK’s economic strength. She shares insights into the challenges ahead, the opportunities created by new technologies, and the people‑centred approach that underpins LINX’s long‑standing success.

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Uncover LINX’s role in driving the global internet – watch the interview www.linx.net/