- The LACNIC Blog highlights the distinction between the Internet’s foundational core and the applications built on top, emphasising their different roles.
- Understanding this separation is crucial for effective cybersecurity policies and preserving the Internet’s openness and innovation.
What happened: Internet infrastructure faced significant challenges.
Recently, the LACNIC Blog published an insightful piece by Hisham Ibrahim, Chief Community Officer at the RIPE NCC, titled “Distinguishing the Internet’s Core From What Is Built on Top.” The article clarifies a crucial distinction between the Internet’s foundational infrastructure and the applications layered on top, such as social media and e-commerce platforms.
It emphasises that while the Internet serves as a global network enabling connectivity, it is not synonymous with the web or the digital economy. The piece also highlights how the rise of digital economies has introduced new cybersecurity challenges, which predominantly affect the applications rather than the Internet’s core structure itself.
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Why it is important
Understanding the distinction between the Internet’s core and its applications is vital for several reasons. As governments around the world increasingly focus on cybersecurity, there is a risk of conflating these layers in regulatory discussions.
Misunderstandings can lead to overreaching policies that target the Internet as a whole, potentially undermining its openness and innovation. The article emphasises that while it is essential to address security risks, policies should specifically target the layers at risk rather than the foundational infrastructure.
This clarity is particularly significant in a landscape where digital solutions are proliferating, creating both opportunities and vulnerabilities. The current geopolitical climate has heightened the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures. However, these should not compromise the Internet’s general-purpose nature, which has fostered significant economic and social advancements.
For instance, the rise of remote work and e-commerce during the pandemic showcased the Internet’s role in facilitating global connectivity. As businesses and individuals increasingly rely on these digital services, understanding the underlying architecture becomes critical not only for mitigating risks but also for fostering an environment conducive to innovation. This article serves as a timely reminder of the importance of preserving the Internet’s integrity while navigating the complexities of modern digital economies.
