Future of the Internet

I've learned so much about the internet through this module: the history of the internet, how the internet can be used for businesses, how the internet can be used for information searching, help people shape communities, and even aid politicians in their campaigns.

Similarly, the internet is like a double bladed sword; with pros, there will definitely be cons as well. Due to the high number of viruses, worms and other malicious software created by hackers online, internet security is very much a necessity. The loss of personal information and even identity have both become very real problems since the birth of the internet. Social networking sites such as Facebook and MySpace has allowed us to create relations and communities - at the risk of putting up too much personal information of ourselves. Such information can be kept indefinitely by Facebook, until they wish to eliminate it themselves. On Google, whenever you make a search, your IP address, the time, and what you search is store in their database forever. Such information can then be used in a court of law against you. (http://hackerslife.blogspot.com/2007/08/documentary-about-dangers-of-google.html)

What does the future of the internet hold for us?

1) Globalism

Sharing of information and knowledge will come at a lower cost as time goes by. People will become more knowledgeable and smarter, and be more aware of the things that is happening around us. The world can soon become a global village - where everyone in the world is a citizen, and international relations can improve. On the other hand, this could lead to a loss of culture in countries, as we get more and more integrated with each other.

2) Virtual Reality

As 3d graphics become more sophisticated, virtual reality interfaces will also become more realistic. This technology will be applied in many ways, such as gaming, advertising, and even for home use. People can feel like they're meeting each other in person, even though they could be miles, or countries apart.

3) Communities

The internet can unite communities, and can be used for communication within communities and even across countries. Communities can be organised in virtual space, and make use of tools such as newsgroups, websites and mailing lists. Towns and cities can be more organised and empowered at the neighborhood level. Isolated individuals can also be brought together through similar interests, hobbies and political ideas.

4) Integration

The internet could integrate with other technologies, such as phones, television, refrigerators, ovens, and perhaps even the common table. Perhaps one day, when our refrigerator is out of food, it can automatically order our food from online. People could be able to access the internet easily with anything, from anywhere. The internet will truly be portable and easily accessible.