Internet use is ubiquitous. From our phones to our toaster ovens, almost all devices are connected to the Internet today. We use the Internet for everything from basic tasks and complex business needs. But what do you really know about the Internet? Here are five facts about the Internet you may not have heard before:
1. A not-for-profit is in charge of domain names and addresses
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is the biggest registrar for the Internet. And all of its information is reported to the U.S. Department of Commerce. What does this mean? A not-for-profit that reports to the U.S. government is an interesting balance of power. No country technically owns the Internet, but the U.S. government seems to have a big stake in the current Internet as we know it. But the future of regulating the Internet is a delicate balance and a big responsibility.
2. It’s underwater…
Large cables that transmit Internet connections can be found in the world’s oceans. These undersea cables are what allow the Internet to be used and connected from all over the world. WiFi is cool, but without these cables most people wouldn’t be able to connect over the Internet. We’re a truly global society thanks to the underwater Internet. Next time you think about a secure web proxy, imagine a whale swimming around your connection.
3. …which is just one way it’s impacting the environment
While we don’t see it when we use it, the Internet is a physical thing. With cables and electricity required to power the Internet, the Internet is having a real-life effect on our environment. Both land animals and aquatic life have been displaced by Internet cables. And the materials and power used to make Internet cables, and devices can be a major source of pollution. Perhaps less printing is saving the trees, but there may be bigger concerns. What the Internet is doing to our physical world as yet to be measured.
4. Unique searches happen every day
It’s easy to think that most of what we know is collective, shared, or “common sense.” But every day people are performing completely unique searches. This can teach us a lot about people. We have insights into how people think through issues, ask questions, and learn thanks to the data provided by companies like Google.
5. More bots use the Internet than humans
If you think the Internet is populated by people online, think again! There are more bots crawling the Internet than people. Just what does that mean? It can be as simple as post scheduling for social media and as complex as running analysis for the NYSE. Bots are a powerful presence on the Internet. And they can be used for good and evil.
The Internet is still a new technology. As the first generation of humans who grew up with the Internet matures, we’ll learn more about this technology’s impact on society. But for now, there’s still a lot to learn. The Internet has had a positive effect on bringing people together from all walks of life. In many ways, the Internet is an equaliser. It has given a voice and platforms to people who would otherwise go unnoticed. It has raised awareness of social injustices like racism and gender pay inequality. The social aspect of the Internet has added a new dimension to first-world countries. Many people “hang out” online rather than frequently local businesses. And in that respect, the Internet has had an unintentional effect on some small businesses and communities. Those who are able to keep up with new technology prosper while others become relics.
