Discover the Physical Side of the Internet

Speaker: Andrew Blum

• Journalist and author
• Known for his book "Tubes"

Context

• TEDGlobal 2012, June 2012
• Prompted by an incident with a squirrel chewing through a cable, leading to questions about the physical infrastructure of the internet

Key Points

The Physical Internet

• The internet is not just a digital or abstract concept; it has a tangible physical form
• Consists of underwater cables, secret switches, data centers, and various infrastructural elements

Exploration and Insights

• Andrew Blum traveled to various locations to see the physical components that constitute the internet
  • Underwater cables that cross oceans
  • Secret switches that direct internet traffic
  • Data centers and servers that store data and manage internet operations

Significance

• Understanding the physical side of the internet is crucial for comprehending its operation and vulnerabilities
• Highlights the complexity and interconnectedness of global internet infrastructure

Related Topics

• Technology
• Business
• Exploration
• Internet

Additional Information

• Blum's exploration is detailed in his book "Tubes"
• Encourages a deeper understanding of how digital worlds are built on physical foundations

Conclusion

• The talk sheds light on the often overlooked aspect of the internet’s infrastructure
• Encourages viewers to think about the internet beyond the screen and digital interactions, appreciating its physical backbone

Note

This talk is available on the TED website and is part of their collection of talks focusing on technology and exploration. It provides a unique perspective on a topic that touches countless aspects of modern life.