Evolution of Communication Networks and the Internet

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.

Difference between LTE and VoLTE [UPSC 2019]

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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