Hong Kong CN2 GIA Routes: What You Need to Know

For those familiar with VPS, the term ‘Telecom CN2 network’ is no longer unfamiliar. CN2 is divided into two main types: CN2 GT and CN2 GIA. Besides these, there are also terms like bi-directional CN2, triple-network CN2, and return-route CN2. Here, we organize and explain common terms related to Telecom CN2 GIA for everyone.

Difference between Telecom CN2 and 163 Backbone Network:

• 163 Backbone Network: This is the most basic network route, also known as ChinaNet (AS4134). It is not optimized for Telecom users and uses the 202.97 node type for network carrying. Due to the large number of users and lack of optimization, there can often be network delays and higher packet loss rates during peak periods. Typically, when introducing cloud servers, mentioning the use of the Telecom backbone network means that data transmission will pass through this network route.
• CN2 GT: GT stands for Global Transit, and it is the mid-range product of CN2, with better quality compared to the 163 Backbone Network. In CN2, it is of a lower level that includes both the traditional 202.97 nodes and the 59.43 high-speed CN2 nodes. However, the 59.43 nodes are usually used only at international exits. CN2 GT has an independent network path at international exits, while it still relies on the 163 backbone network domestically. Route tracing will show that all domestic nodes belong to 163 (AS4134 routing), but once data is transmitted to international nodes, it switches to CN2 (AS4809 routing). This type of network provides better service quality and its cost is higher compared to the standard 163 network.
• Hong Kong CN2 GIA: GIA stands for Global Internet Access, representing the high-end product of CN2, providing the highest level of service. CN2 GIA uses the 59.43 high-speed nodes throughout, ensuring network stability, fast speed, and low packet loss. It is designed and built to provide higher quality connection services, facilitating fast interconnectivity globally, especially enhancing the stability between Europe, North America, and Asian routes. However, due to lower bandwidth during construction, the customer base using this network is relatively limited, mainly enterprises, government departments, and financial institutions, etc. Naturally, its cost is also relatively higher compared to the original network.

Further Understanding Bi-directional CN2 GIA:

• Outbound CN2 GIA: Refers to the data transmission path from the local side to the VPS using CN2 GIA.
• Inbound CN2 GIA: Refers to the data transmission path from the VPS to the local side using CN2 GIA.
• Bi-directional CN2 GIA: Both outbound and inbound paths use CN2 GIA routes.

Generally speaking, inbound CN2 GIA is more critical than outbound CN2 GIA, because in most cases, the data is transmitted from the VPS to the local side.