| Document and Entity Information | Feb. 21, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | EQUINIX INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001101239 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 21, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-31293 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 77-0487526 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One Lagoon Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Redwood City |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 94065 |
| City Area Code | (650) |
| Local Phone Number | 598-6000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common stock, par value $0.001 per share |
| Trading Symbol | EQIX |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
