The Netherlands is known for its excellent digital infrastructure. Computers and software are at the heart of almost every organization. As a consequence, our need for advanced data-processing is growing exponentially. This underlines the vital importance of a state-of-the-art digital infrastructure.
Within the country, the Noord-Holland region is the frontrunner. This position is illustrated by the high level of broadband access, fixed and mobile Internet coverage, the number of Wi-Fi networks and the capacity of data centers. This highquality digital infrastructure not only boosts productivity, it also prompts the emergence of new business models.
Noord-Holland exceeds the EU requirements for broadband internet and ensure that by 2020 even inhabitants of rural areas will have access to 100 Mbps networks. Local authorities mediate between supply and demand. They also attract international corporations into the field of telecommunications and data- processing. The high quality connections they need to international networks also benefit local companies. With domestic and international companies joining forces, Noord-Holland has become a major hub on the world’s digital highway.
The Netherlands ranks first in the EU for internet connectivity (DESI 2017)
MICROSOFT
Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services, devices and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft was founded in 1975 and is operating at the Schiphol area in the Province of Noord-Holland since 1988. Microsoft also helds a big datacenter in Middenmeer. The mission of Microsoft is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.
Ernst-Jan Stigter, CEO Microsoft Nederland
We have really good experience with working together with the government to achieve what we want to achieve. Both for society as well as for economy”
EXCELLENT WORKFORCE
One important incentive which is attracting foreign investments is the highly trained professional workforce in the field of ICT.
Excellent schools and universities train not only Dutch students but students from all over the world have discovered the high
quality of education (often offered in English). Students value the high quality of life and the international vibe of Noord-Holland,
as do managers of international companies who choose to live here with their families.
AMS-IX EUROPE’S LEADING INTERNET EXCHANGE
The interconnectivity of people and companies depends on the interconnectivity of the networks they are using. Interconnecting 800 networks is the purpose of the Amsterdam Internet Exchange AMS-IX. This makes AMS-IX the largest exchange in Europe.
AMS-IX serves a diverse mix of Internet companies: international carriers, mobile operators, content providers, hosting and cloud companies, application providers, television broadcasters, gaming companies and other related businesses. All these are unified in one community, AMS-IX, within a unique structure. It offers professional IP exchange services, also called peering services. Peering enables these connected networks to offer stable, fast and cost-effective Internet services to their end-users and business customers.
