Earnings Per Share (Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2010	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2010
Earnings Per Share
Net income (loss)	$ 30,733	$ (2,274)	$ 55,878	$ 11,925
Net (income) loss attributable to redeemable non-controlling interests	(3)		(3)
Net income (loss) attributable to Equinix	30,730	(2,274)	55,875	11,925
Interest on convertible debt, net of tax	1,746		3,485
Net income (loss) attributable to Equinix, diluted	$ 32,476	$ (2,274)	$ 59,360	$ 11,925
Weighted-average shares used to compute basic earnings per share	46,924	43,507	46,688	41,546
3.0% convertible subordinated notes	2,945		2,945
Employee equity awards	795		821	1,148
Weighted-average shares used to compute diluted earnings per share	50,664	43,507	50,454	42,694
Basic	$ 0.65	$ (0.05)	$ 1.20	$ 0.29
Diluted	$ 0.64	$ (0.05)	$ 1.18	$ 0.28
Senior notes stated percentage		3.00%		3.00%