Distributed internet: Decentralizing data network

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• December 20, 2021

Insight summary

The internet, traditionally dominated by centralized servers, is undergoing a transformation with the rise of distributed networks, which decentralize data and share load among different systems for quicker and more efficient networking. This shift promises a more personalized and efficient online experience for individuals, offers businesses the opportunity to create more robust systems and stimulate job growth, and provides governments with enhanced security and resilience. The wider implications of distributed internet include the potential for a more equitable digital resource distribution, the need for reevaluation of data privacy laws, and the possibility of exacerbating cybersecurity threats.

Distributed internet context

Client-server relationships dominate the internet, which relies on the Internet Protocol Suite. Of these, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the basis for communication and data storage. In a centralized server, the possibility of an overload is inevitable as the network grows. Moreover, its inefficiency becomes clear when the single server breaks and the whole network is affected. 

The development of distributed internet or networks decentralizes data and shares load among different systems, making networking quicker and more efficient. Moreover, these networks can be physically separated from each other, but connected via the Internet. Should one system fail, the others can continue working without being affected.   

One promising candidate that enables a distributed internet is the Interplanetary File System (IPFS). A decentralized data network is a perfect place for blockchain applications that need to work with large amounts of data. In addition, IPFS eliminates any centralized authority, so whenever you're using it, there's little to no chance your information will be compromised or lost due to a single point failure. 

Disruptive Impact 

With the ability to connect and configure devices without affecting the entire network, users can enjoy a more personalized and efficient online experience. Individuals can add new devices or applications to their personal networks without worrying about slowing down or disrupting the entire system. Furthermore, the efficiency of distributed networks can lead to faster internet speeds, improving the quality of streaming services, online gaming, and other data-intensive activities.

Companies can leverage these networks to create more robust and resilient systems, reducing the risk of network failures that can disrupt operations. Additionally, the rise of distributed networks can stimulate demand for new types of jobs, such as engineers and data scientists specializing in decentralized applications. Moreover, businesses can also benefit from the potential cost savings associated with distributed networks, as they can reduce reliance on expensive cloud services.

Moreover, distributed networks can offer enhanced security and resilience for governments. They can use these networks to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats, as the distributed nature of these networks makes them harder to attack or compromise. Governments can also leverage distributed networks to improve public services. For example, they could use these networks to create more efficient and reliable systems for public transportation or emergency services. 

Implications of distributed internet 

Wider implications of distributed internet may include:

• Eliminate the need for elaborate firewall rules and provides data redundancy between multiple systems, making it secure and reliable.
• Develop more efficient networks for e-learning platforms, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce. 
• Create a more secure and reliable network for online banking, online gaming, and social networks. 
• A new era of digital democracy, enabling more secure and transparent online voting systems, which could increase voter participation and strengthen democratic processes.
• A more equitable distribution of digital resources, reducing the digital divide and promoting greater inclusivity and access to information, particularly in underserved communities.
• The development of more energy-efficient technologies, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions and promoting more sustainable digital practices.
• The widespread use of distributed internet could disrupt traditional business models, prompting companies to adapt and innovate, which could lead to the emergence of new industries and economic opportunities.
• The implementation of distributed networks could necessitate a reevaluation of current data privacy laws, leading to stronger protections for individuals and a shift in the balance of power from large tech companies to users.
• The proliferation of distributed internet could potentially exacerbate cybersecurity threats, necessitating the development of advanced security measures and potentially leading to a more complex digital landscape.

Questions to consider

• How can distributed Internet improve other sectors, such as meteorology, to forecast natural disasters and make people safer? 
• Will distributed Internet, such as the IFPS, complement or even replace HTTP in the future?