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Evolution of Communication Networks and the Internet

June 7, 2024 124 0

In today’s interconnected world, communication networks play a vital role in facilitating seamless connectivity and information exchange. From the evolution of cellular technologies like 5G and the upcoming 6G to satellite networks enabling global communication, the landscape of telecommunications continues to evolve rapidly. Moreover, organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) contribute to the governance and standardization of the internet, ensuring its smooth functioning worldwide.

From 5G to Web 5.0: Future of Networks and Internet Evolution

Fifth Generation (5G) 

  • The ongoing development and deployment of the fifth generation (5G) of cellular networks involve the use of millimetre wave (mmWave) or sub-6 GHz frequencies, enabling massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and beamforming within a cell. 
    • Promising ultra-fast data speeds, low latency, and massive connectivity, 5G networks target a maximum data rate of 10 Gbps. 
    • Their goal is to enhance the efficiency, flexibility, and diversity of 4G networks.

Sixth Generation (6G)

  • As the successor to 5G cellular technology, the sixth-generation wireless (6G) is currently under development
    • 6G networks are expected to utilise terahertz (THz) frequencies or optical wireless communication (OWC) to achieve extremely large aperture terminal (ELAT) and intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) within a cell. 
    • Offering significantly higher capacity and lower latency than 5G networks, 6G aims for a maximum data rate of 1 Tbps. 
    • The aspirations for 6G include enabling immersive reality, quantum communication, and applications of artificial intelligence.

International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) 

  • ITU and ICANN are two key organizations involved in the governance of the Internet.
ITU ICANN
  • A specialized agency of the United Nations (UN)
  • Focuses on information and communication technologies (ICTs)
  • Fosters international cooperation and development in the ICT sector
  • Sets global technical standards for telecommunications
  • Facilitate allocation and management of global radio spectrum and satellite orbits
  • Promote the development of ICTs in developing countries
  • A non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the Domain Name System (DNS) and other internet identifiers
  • Manages the top-level domains (TLDs) such as .com, .net, and .org
  • Oversees the allocation and assignment of IP addresses
  • Develops and implements policies related to the DNS and other internet identifiers
  • Promotes competition and innovation in the internet domain name industry

 

Difference between LTE and VoLTE [UPSC 2019]

LTE VoLTE
  • A data communication system
  • A data communication system to overcome LTE
  • A type of network
  • A service offered on the network
  • May or may not support data and voice call together
  • Always supports data and voice call together
  • The quality of voice calling is not good
  • The quality of voice calling is HD
  • Turns off the data connection while making voice calls
  • Does not turn off the data connection while making voice calls
  • Call connection between two users is slower (almost takes 7 seconds)
  • Call connection is faster if both users are on VoLTE
  • External applications are required to make video calls
  • No external applications are required to make video calls. Gives better battery life than LTE

 

Satellite Network

  • It is a system of satellites that are used to communicate with each other and with ground stations. Satellite networks can be used for a variety of purposes:
  • Telecommunications: Satellite networks are used to provide telecommunications services, such as telephone, internet, and television.
  • Navigation: Satellite networks are used for navigation, such as GPS and GLONASS.
  • Earth observation: Satellite networks are used to observe the Earth, such as for weather forecasting and environmental monitoring.
  • Military: Satellite networks are used for military purposes, such as command and control, intelligence, and surveillance.
Starlink: A space-based internet system developed and operated by SpaceX.

  • It aims to provide high-speed internet access to underserved areas around the world through a network of thousands of low-orbit satellites. 
  • Starlink has already launched over 3,000 satellites and is operational in over 65 countries. 
  • It has been praised for its ability to connect remote areas and its role in disaster relief and wartime communication. 
  • Space Based Internet: Space-based internet can provide connectivity in areas where land networks can’t reach, such as remote areas, at sea, and during disasters.
Benefits Challenges
  • Global Coverage: Ensures high-speed internet worldwide, reaching even areas lacking modern connectivity.
  • Fiber Replacement: Replaces costly fiber connections used by traditional internet providers.
  • Stable Signals: Eliminates dropped calls and signal loss issues associated with conventional internet.
  • Future-Ready: Enables seamless connection for upcoming innovative devices and technologies.
  • Improved Performance: Utilizes low earth orbit satellites to minimize latency for better overall performance.
  • Latency Concerns: Potential latency issues compared to fiber optic internet, especially with uncertain impacts on communication.
  • Space Junk Risks: Deployment of numerous satellites raises concerns about increased space debris, posing collision risks.
  • Technical Hurdles: Involves addressing challenges in satellite positioning and mass production of thousands of satellites simultaneously.
  • Environmental Concerns: Carbon footprint of launches and impact on astronomy.
  • Cybersecurity: Vulnerability to cyber threats and the need for secure communication.
  • Global Coverage and Equity: Challenges in providing universal access and affordability.

 

Evolution of Web (Web 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 5.0)

  • Web 1.0: Often referred to as the “read-only web,” was the first stage of the World Wide Web. It existed roughly from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s. 
  • Web 2.0: Refers to the second generation of the World Wide Web, characterized by a shift from static web pages to dynamic and interactive content. 
    • The term was popularized around the early 2000s.
  • Web 3.0: It is the idea of a new internet that gives users more control over their data and privacy, using decentralization, blockchain, and tokenomics
    • It aims to offer a personalized and interactive experience but is still in development and not fully implemented.[UPSC 2022] 
    • Examples : Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Ethereum.
  • Web 4.0: This is the future stage of the web, expected to emerge by 2025. 
    • It is also called the symbiotic web, as it envisions a seamless integration of the web with the physical world, human biology, and consciousness. 
  • Web 5.0: This is the ultimate stage of the web, expected to emerge by 2030. 
    • It is also called the emotional web, as it anticipates a web that can understand and respond to the emotions, values, and preferences of the users.
Must Read
Current Affairs Editorial Analysis
Upsc Notes  Upsc Blogs 
NCERT Notes  Free Main Answer Writing

 

Conclusion

  • As we embrace the advancements in communication technologies, from the promise of ultra-fast 5G networks to the potential of space-based internet, the future of connectivity appears bright and promising. 
  • With each iteration, from Web 1.0 to the envisioned Web 5.0, the internet evolves to cater to the changing needs of users, promising a more immersive, decentralized, and equitable digital experience
  • As we look ahead, collaboration between stakeholders and continued innovation will be key in shaping a connected world that benefits all.
Related Articles 
Communication System: Evolution, Historical Significance & Economic Value What is Satellite Internet and How it Works?: Advantages and Disadvantages
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Telecommunication Bill 2023: Key Features and Concerns

 

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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

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 Final Result – CIVIL SERVICES EXAMINATION, 2023.   Udaan-Prelims Wallah ( Static ) booklets 2024 released both in english and hindi : Download from Here!     Download UPSC Mains 2023 Question Papers PDF  Free Initiative links -1) Download Prahaar 3.0 for Mains Current Affairs PDF both in English and Hindi 2) Daily Main Answer Writing  , 3) Daily Current Affairs , Editorial Analysis and quiz ,  4) PDF Downloads  UPSC Prelims 2023 Trend Analysis cut-off and answer key

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AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
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Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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