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Briefing Desk

Latest Briefings

Concise reporting on the developments shaping internet governance and infrastructure. Browse each area for recent news, context and watchpoints.

  1. What are undersea cables made of?

    Undersea cables, or submarine cables, are a critical part of global communication infrastructure. They are responsible for transmitting data across oceans, supporting internet connections, phone calls, and television broadcasts. These cables are designed to endure the harsh underwater environment, a…

  2. What Are the Most Common Network Operating Systems?

    Network operating systems (NOS) play a crucial role in managing, securing, and optimizing resources across interconnected devices in a network. Unlike traditional operating systems, which manage resources on a single device, NOS are designed to coordinate and control resources in larger, distributed…

  3. AdClear secures $510K to automate FCA compliance for fintechs

    What happened: RegTech startup AdClear secures $510K to automate FCA marketing compliance for fintechs AdClear, a regulatory technology startup, has successfully raised $510K to enhance its platform, which automates marketing compliance for fintech companies. This funding will be used to develop too…

  4. Trump signs order on crypto regulation and stockpile

    What happened: President Trump signs executive order on cryptocurrency regulation and national stockpile On January 23, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order focused on cryptocurrency regulation and strategy. The order establishes a dedicated working group to develop a comprehensive…

  5. KYND urges financial firms to build cyber resilience under DORA

    What happened: KYND urges financial firms to prioritize long-term cyber resilience under DORA KYND, a cyber risk management firm, has urged financial institutions to focus on building long-term cyber resilience to meet the requirements of the EU’s Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). DORA, whi…

  6. BlackRock CEO urges SEC to approve asset tokenization

    Larry Fink urges the SEC to approve tokenisation of bonds and stocks. This shift could impact crypto and DeFi, but faces regulatory hurdles.

  7. ICANN board previews key workshop topics

    ICANN Board’s January 2025 workshop will cover the gTLD Program, Strategic Plan, Grant Program, and feature a public session with RSSAC.

  8. Nokia appoints Patrik Hammarén president

    Nokia appoints Patrik Hammarén as president of Nokia Technologies to lead growth and expand its patent licensing business.

  9. NASA, ESA trial AWS cloud for faster data

    NASA and ESA trial AWS cloud for faster satellite data, focusing on the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope.

  10. Novacap closes $1B fund for digital infrastructure

    What happened: Novacap raises $1 billion for digital infrastructure Novacap, a North American private equity firm, announced the final closing of its first fund solely dedicated to digital infrastructure. The Novacap Digital Infrastructure Fund I exceeded its target, raising over US$1 billion from i…

  11. Cathay Pacific and SITA boost global airport connectivity

    What happened: Cathay Pacific partners with SITA on connectivity Cathay Pacific and SITA have announced a partnership to upgrade network connectivity across 51 global airports. This agreement introduces SITA’s Connect Go service, which boosts bandwidth by up to five times current capacity while opti…

  12. LACNIC exposes leak of thousands of Fortinet device credentials

    What happened: Fortinet credentials leaked in massive breach A significant data breach has emerged as a group of criminals leaked the configuration files, IP addresses, and VPN access credentials of over 15,000 Fortigate devices on the dark web. Each folder contained a Fortigate config dump file alo…

  13. CMA revisits mobile ecosystems amid rising political scrutiny

    What happened: CMA initiates new probe into mobile ecosystems The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced a renewed investigation into the mobile ecosystems dominated by Google and Apple. This decision follows the recent removal of CMA Chair Marcus Bokkerink, which was reportedly influ…

  14. Openreach’s fibre network expands to cover half of Scotland

    What happened: Openreach expands fibre network across Scotland Openreach has successfully expanded its fibre network to reach half of Scotland, a significant milestone in enhancing broadband connectivity across the region. The telecoms infrastructure company has invested over £435 million in full fi…

  15. Top tech news today: January 24, 2025

    Tech News Roundup 1. Adclear secures $628k for compliance automation RegTech startup Adclear has raised £510,000 to enhance its AI-driven platform, helping FinTech firms automate FCA marketing compliance processes. Source 2. KYND calls for long-term cyber resilience KYND urges financial firms to pri…

  16. What are the main characteristics of a Network Operating System?

    Discover the main features of a network operating system, including resource sharing, security, and centralized management for networking.

  17. Key challenges in managing network operating systems

    Compare traditional and network operating systems, exploring their key features and use cases to find the best fit for your needs.

  18. Why invest in private credit: Key benefits and insights

    Discover why private credit is a smart investment. Learn about its benefits, including higher returns and portfolio diversification.

  19. Is Quantum Computing the Future?

    Quantum computing, once confined to theoretical research, is rapidly becoming a transformative force in technology. Unlike classical computers that process information in binary (0s and 1s), quantum computers use quantum bits (qubits), enabling them to perform complex calculations at unprecedented s…

  20. AI apps revenue hits $1.3B in 2024

    In-app purchases for AI apps surged to $1.3 billion in 2024, with $ 1.49 billion downloads, marking rapid growth in generative AI adoption.

  21. TIM wins $1.03B court ruling

    TIM wins $1.03B court ruling against the Italian state, potentially affecting shareholder payouts and Vivendi’s stake sale.

  22. Trump revokes Biden order on AI risks

    What happened: Trump cancels AI oversight order On January 20, U.S. President Donald Trump revoked a 2023 executive order signed by his predecessor, Joe Biden, that aimed to address risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI). Biden’s order required developers of high-risk AI systems to share safety…

  23. ARIN concludes ICP-2 consultation to update RIR criteria

    What happened: ARIN concludes ICP-2 Principles Consultation to update RIR criteria On January 22, 2025, ARIN announced the completion of the Internet Coordination Policy-2 (ICP-2) Principles Consultation. This consultation, initiated by the Number Resource Organization (NRO), sought input from the g…

  24. Cisco joins TM Forum to drive 5G and AI innovation

    What happened: Cisco joins TM Forum to accelerate 5G innovation and AI-driven operations Cisco has announced its membership in TM Forum, a global industry association that collaborates on standards and solutions for digital transformation in telecommunications. This move underscores Cisco’s commitme…

  25. ICP-2 principles feedback period ends

    The ICP-2 feedback period ended with 300 responses. The next step is to analyze the feedback to improve RIR governance.

  26. Why use classless inter-domain routing?

    Learn why Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR) is crucial for efficient IP address management and network routing.

  27. Mitiga secures $30m to expand cybersecurity services

    Mitiga raises $30m in Series B to expand cloud and SaaS cybersecurity in the US and Europe, boosting AI-driven threat detection and response.

  28. CYFIRMA secures investment from MDI ventures

    CYFIRMA, backed by MDI Ventures, expands in Southeast Asia. It offers advanced solutions to combat digital risks.

  29. Raichelle Kallery appointed CEO of The Savings Bank

    Raichelle Kallery is appointed the first female president and CEO of The Savings Bank, marking a historic milestone.

  30. What are internet privacy issues?

    Internet privacy issues have emerged as a critical concern in today’s hyper-connected world. With the rapid growth of digital services, the amount of personal data collected online has skyrocketed. This data—spanning from browsing histories and online purchases to personal conversations—has immense …

  31. Telxius upgrades global Ethernet service for Europe and Americas

    What happened: Telxius upgrades its global Ethernet service Telxius has introduced significant improvements to its Global Carrier Ethernet (GCE) service, designed for enterprises and service providers in Europe and the Americas. The upgraded service provides bandwidth flexibility, ranging from 50Mbp…

  32. Sparkle launches new PoP in Brasília to boost connectivity

    What happened: Sparkle opens new PoP in Brasília to enhance regional connectivity Sparkle, a global provider of telecommunications services, has announced the launch of a new Point of Presence (PoP) in Brasília, Brazil. The new PoP is part of Sparkle’s strategy to enhance connectivity in Brazil and …

  33. What is decentralized internet?

    What is a decentralized internet? A decentralized internet refers to a network structure that distributes control and data across multiple nodes rather than relying on a few centralized servers or entities. This model aims to empower users by giving them more control over their data and online exper…

  34. What is penetration testing?

    What is penetration testing? Penetration testing, often known as pen testing, is a simulated cyberattack on a computer system, network, or web application aimed at evaluating its security. The primary goal of penetration testing is to uncover vulnerabilities before malicious attackers can exploit th…

  35. Trump boosts crypto: Bitcoin climbs above $106K

    Bitcoin surged past $106,000 on Trump’s first full day in office, as the SEC unveils a crypto task force. Markets show optimism.

  36. RETN launches first PoP in Greece, boosting regional connectivity

    What happened: RETN launches PoP in Greece RETN, a leading global network services provider, has launched its first Point of Presence (PoP) in Thessaloniki, Greece, at the Balkan Gate data centre. This strategic move expands RETN’s Pan-Eurasian network, connecting the Balkans to the Mediterranean re…

  37. Liberty Global and EY advocate for AI-friendly telecom regulation

    What happened: Liberty Global and EY urge regulators to adopt AI-friendly policies for telecom growth Liberty Global and EY have called for telecom regulators to adopt AI-friendly policies to foster the growth and integration of artificial intelligence in the telecom industry. Speaking at a recent i…

  38. ARIN announces updates to its mailing lists for 2025

    What happened: ARIN updates mailing lists for improved community engagement in 2025 ARIN (American Registry for Internet Numbers) has announced updates to its mailing lists for 2025, aiming to foster better communication and engagement among its community members. The updates include enhancements to…

  39. Gate City Bank adopts Lama AI for GenAI-powered loan origination

    What happened: Gate City Bank partners with Lama AI for GenAI loan origination technology Gate City Bank has announced its selection of Lama AI to integrate generative AI (GenAI)-powered technology into its loan origination system. This advanced solution is designed to optimize the loan approval…

  40. LACNIC marks 30 years as Namex achieves terabit milestone

    What happened: Namex achieves Terabit traffic milestone On January 15, 2025, Namex achieved a historic milestone by reaching the first terabit of internet network traffic. This significant event coincided with the live broadcast of the Inter – Bologna football match on DAZN, underscoring the growing…

  41. Telstra International reveals ambitious vision for future network

    What happened: Telstra International unveils future network vision Telstra International has unveiled an ambitious vision for its future network, aiming to create a highly autonomous system that enhances customer experiences through zero-touch security and resilience. The company plans to upgrade it…

  42. PTC’25 conference showcases innovations for industry leaders

    The PTC’25 conference, scheduled for January 19-22, 2025, in Honolulu, Hawaii, is poised to be a significant event for professionals in the telecommunications sector. Organized by the Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC), this conference will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and in…

  43. ARTERIA launches leased circuit Services for Topaz Cable

    ARTERIA Networks Corporation has officially launched its leased circuit service, “DynaEther,” from the landing station in Takahagi, Ibaraki Prefecture. This new service provides seamless connectivity between Japan and Canada via the Topaz submarine cable, the first submarine cable to directly connec…

  44. Top tech news today: January 22, 2025

    Tech News Roundup 1. Gate City Bank partners with Lama AI Gate City Bank has selected Lama AI to enhance its loan origination process, aiming to streamline workflows and improve customer service with generative AI technology. Source 2. Raichelle Kallery appointed CEO of The Savings Bank Raichelle Ka…

  45. Telcos unlock revenue with network APIs for 5G

    What happened: Telcos leverage APIs for 5G monetisation Telecom companies are increasingly focusing on network application programming interfaces (APIs) to enhance their 5G monetisation strategies. Sandeep Arora, VP at Capgemini, emphasises that an API-led approach enables telcos to unlock new reven…

  46. How does border gateway protocol work

    Understand how Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) works to manage internet routing, ensure efficiency, and maintain secure connectivity.

  47. Why is private credit growing? Key factors behind its rise

    Private credit grows as the changing market and the demand for higher yields rises. Investors seek alternatives to bank loans.

  48. ​Key differences between private credit and private equity

    Learn the key differences between private credit and private equity, including their risks, returns, and role in your investment strategy.

  49. Is private credit an alternative investment? Learn why it’s growing

    Why private credit is gaining attention? Private credit is becoming a prominent alternative investment. As traditional investment opportunities, such as stocks and bonds, offer lower returns, more investors are looking to private credit as a viable option. But, is private credit truly an alternative…

  50. ARIN updates TAL for RPKI compatibility

    ARIN updates the TAL for better compatibility with RPKI validators, adding new remarks on disclaimers, exclusions, and limitations.