Free Networking and Cybersecurity Training Expanded Through New Global Partnership

The Interconnection Academy, established by DE-CIX in collaboration with Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) Barcelona, has announced a new partnership with the Global Cyber Alliance (GCA). The collaboration aims to expand free access to specialized training in networking and network security to address increasing threats across the global Internet ecosystem.

According to the World Economic Forum, 56% of companies surveyed in its Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 report a shortage of cybersecurity expertise. This skills gap comes as global cybercrime costs are projected to approach US $11 trillion in 2026, with artificial intelligence contributing to a rise in the scale and frequency of network attacks such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS), address spoofing, and man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.

Against this backdrop, the Interconnection Academy and the Global Cyber Alliance share a common objective: strengthening Internet resilience through education, collaboration, and practical security initiatives.

Expanding Access to Networking and Routing Security Training

Through the partnership, both organizations will enhance their respective online learning platforms by sharing selected educational content and training modules. The first module provided by GCA and hosted on the Interconnection Academy platform introduces the MANRS (Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security) initiative. MANRS is a global program designed to improve routing security and reduce risks such as address spoofing through coordinated, operator-led action.

The Interconnection Academy is an online educational platform focused on digital infrastructure, interconnection, and peering. Since its launch in 2021, it has developed a series of networking modules aimed at supporting both early-career professionals and experienced practitioners. In 2026, the Academy expanded its Networking Basics series with a third module covering middle-layer protocols, with an additional module on the interconnection ecosystem scheduled for release in April and further content planned throughout the year.

By working with ecosystem partners, industry experts, and organizations worldwide, the Academy continues to broaden its library of accessible, practical training resources designed to help professionals integrate interconnection strategies into their IT environments and support long-term digital growth.

Supporting a More Secure and Resilient Internet

The Global Cyber Alliance is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing cyber risk and addressing systemic Internet security challenges. Through initiatives such as its Internet Integrity Program, GCA promotes collective action among network operators and stakeholders to strengthen core Internet infrastructure and mitigate shared risks.

The new collaboration reflects a shared commitment to providing educational resources that address current and emerging cybersecurity challenges, including those associated with AI-driven threats. By combining expertise in interconnection and cybersecurity, the Interconnection Academy and the Global Cyber Alliance aim to support the development of a skilled workforce equipped to secure and sustain critical Internet infrastructure.

This partnership underscores the growing importance of specialized cybersecurity training, routing security standards, and cross-sector collaboration in maintaining a safe and resilient global Internet.

Resource: Interconnection Academy

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