IOPS does not develop standards and it does not lobby. IOPS performs analogous functions in solving the kinds of network integrity problems that require cooperation among members of the same industry. Like the NRSC, IOPS is concerned with ensuring a continued high level of network reliability, which means that some level of technical cooperation among industry players is essential. There are two categories of membership, Primary and Associate. In order to ensure that IOPS is effective, members must participate in IOPS activities and contribute actively to its goals and objectives.
Members pay annual dues which support IOPS personnel and activities.
IOPS works as appropriate with others, including other Internet organizations, the information industry, vendors of Internet equipment, and other interested entities. Implemented a shared trouble-ticket system to facilitate the exchange of information in order to assist in efforts to deal effectively with Internet service outages or degradations. The operation of IOPS is directed by an Executive Committee. Technical work is performed by working groups comprising employees of the member companies. Most work is accomplished at IOPS plenary meetings, which currently are held approximately quarterly.