IPLC and CN2 dedicated lines are mainstream enterprise-level cross-border network solutions, differing in their technical principles, performance, and applicable scenarios. Understanding these differences can help enterprises make informed technology choices based on their business needs and budgets.

IPLC (International Private Leased Circuit) is a point-to-point international data transmission service, essentially a dedicated channel with physical layer isolation. It leases independent international bandwidth resources to establish transmission links unaffected by the public internet. CN2 (China Telecom Next Generation Bearer Network) is a high-quality public internet backbone network built by China Telecom. It utilizes optimized routing algorithms and a lightweight design, specifically optimized for international access quality.

From a technical architecture perspective, IPLC operates at the network physical or data link layer, providing completely dedicated bandwidth resources. This technical feature makes it immune to international link fluctuations and bypasses national firewalls. CN2, based on the public internet architecture, ensures data transmission efficiency through optimized routing strategies and specialized adjustments. Its autonomous system number is AS4809, which offers shorter paths and fewer international exit nodes compared to the traditional ChinaNet (AS4134).

Performance is a key difference between the two. IPLC offers extremely low latency and near-zero packet loss, high stability, and performance unaffected by peak congestion. CN2 excels in international connections, particularly between mainland China and overseas, providing lower latency and greater network stability. However, as a public international link, network speed and quality are still affected by international egress routing and the link itself.

In terms of security, IPLC provides the highest level of security thanks to its physical isolation. Data is transmitted within a dedicated channel, avoiding the public internet, significantly reducing the risk of eavesdropping or attacks. CN2 relies on China Telecom's network security system for protection. While more secure than ordinary internet lines, it remains a public network.

The cost structure fully reflects the difference in their positioning. IPLC is generally more expensive; for example, a 100Mbps dedicated line from Hong Kong to mainland China can cost over $10,000 per month. CN2 dedicated lines also have higher costs, but are more affordable than IPLC lines, making them a more cost-effective option for enterprises with limited budgets.

The different application scenarios further highlight the degree of specialization between the two. IPLC is suitable for scenarios with extremely high requirements for data security, stability, and latency, such as cross-border transaction data transmission, database synchronization, and core system interconnection within financial institutions. CN2 is more suitable for businesses requiring high-quality international connectivity, such as cross-border e-commerce, foreign trade companies, and remote work, as well as businesses targeting Chinese users like gaming and live streaming.

Businesses should consider both business needs and resource commitments when making decisions. For sectors like finance, government, and the military, where security and stability are crucial, IPLC remains an irreplaceable option. For multinational enterprises with rapidly growing businesses and the need for flexible bandwidth adjustments, IEPL (International Ethernet Private Line), an evolution of IPLC, offers the best balance between performance and cost. For cost-sensitive businesses primarily focused on optimizing access quality within mainland China, CN2 GIA (Global Internet Access) is a highly cost-effective option.

# Identify CN2 lines using traceroute
traceroute target-domain.com
# Observe whether IP segments beginning with AS4809 or 59.43 appear in the route.

In actual network planning, enterprises can adopt a hybrid architecture to balance cost and performance. Configure IPLC dedicated lines for core business systems and CN2 lines for routine business, achieving resource optimization through intelligent routing and scheduling. As global digitalization accelerates, choosing the right network infrastructure has become a key factor in gaining an advantage in international competition. Understanding the fundamental differences between IPLC and CN2 is the first step in making the right decision.