Internet2: Illuminating the Future of Connectivity

The Reality of Internet2

Initiated in 1996, Internet2 provides ultra-fast connections to two fiber-optic backbone networks, ensuring data reaches its destination without loss or delay. It already connects at least one university in each of the 50 states in the US. Abilene, the backbone network of Internet2, operates at speeds up to 2.4 gigabits per second, which is approximately 45,000 times faster than a typical modem.

This project was developed in collaboration with Qwest Communications, Cisco Systems, Nortel Networks, and Indiana University. It currently provides nationwide high-performance networking capabilities for over 180 Internet2 universities. Besides high speed, it offers advanced networking services such as multi-casting, IPv6, and enables advanced applications like High-Definition TV, tele-medicine, and remote access to scientific instruments.

The Potential of Internet2

In the near future, TV may stream into your home via your computer at a quality and level never before imagined. The average person may even be able to create their own TV shows right on their home computer.

The need for speed was one of the primary reasons for the inception of the "New Internet". Government and educational institutions were beginning to get bogged down within the old Internet network system. To maintain the original vision, a new system had to be implemented.

Currently, only government, universities, and corporate sponsors are allowed to participate. It is still in research and the network itself is still under development. For more information on Abilene, please visit the official website.

The Cost of Internet2

One of the reasons individuals are not allowed into the club are the monetary restrictions. Although many individuals might be willing and able to pay the yearly fee of $10,000 to $25,000, the cost of accessing the network itself can run $1,000,000 or more.

So, what are the current participants getting for their money? "This milestone in advanced networking opens possibilities for researchers, students, and teachers at universities across the country to collaborate with each other and to access resources in ways not possible using the commercial Internet," said Steve Corbató, Internet2 director of backbone network infrastructure.

The Future of Internet2

Internet2 is developing and deploying advanced network applications and technologies for research and higher education, accelerating the creation of tomorrow's Internet. It recreates the partnership of academia, industry, and government that helped foster today's Internet in its infancy. For more information about Internet2, see the official website.

Internet2 is expected to go public in about 3 to 5 years. That is when the average Internet user will have access. However, no one is certain what that actually means. If you were excited by the possibilities of the Internet, the future is far brighter for Internet2. So, prepare yourself for the new frontier that just got even newer.