It initially focused on 'one-hop' internet connectivity and providing dark fiber to communications carrier customers in the U.S. and Europe.

[2] In June 1999, Metromedia acquired Abovenet Communications, including its subsidiary PAIX, an operator of Internet peering exchanges.

In 2000, the company acquired M.I.B.H., a networking consultancy operated by Paul Vixie, for $51 million in cash and stock.

[9] In September 2003, the company emerged from bankruptcy and changed its name to Abovenet, with Craig McCaw, Franklin Mutual Advisers, and John Kluge among its largest shareholders.

[10] In October 2006, Digital Realty acquired the east coast data centers of the company for $40 million.