Internet2: high-speed network infrastructure for research and education

Internet

In basic terms the Internet refers simply to a large network of computers. The ordinary Internet or Interent1 however does not supply the necessary speed, security and other assets that can be found in a more closed and controlled networking environment. Therefore, Interent2 was created about ten years ago to cater for a more selective range of internet users. This network began with a specialized and internal internet between various universities in the United States.

Internet2 is similar in many respects to Internet1 or the commercial internet. "Like the commodity Internet, Internet2 comprises servers, routers, switches, and computers that are all connected together. Routers decide which way to send information, and servers handle Web site requests and store information for retrieval." (Russo)

One of the aspects that make Internet2 different is that it has fewer users and has much faster connections that can transport higher volumes of data much more efficiently. (Russo)This paper will provide and overview of Internet2, as well as a discussion of the various advantages and comparative aspects of the network.

Overview

Internet2 is "...a broad name used for a number of different experiments that are being done in the research community." (Reddy & Goodma, 2002, p. 12) Its development is related to the Next Generation Internet law, which recommended studying "...what the world would be like if we had 100 times the current speed or 1,000 times the current speed." (Reddy & Goodma, 2002, p. 12) Internet2 is therefore a "...generic name for a network 100 times the speed, and the Internet3 or Supernet is 1,000 times the speed." (Reddy & Goodma, 2002, p. 12)

Internet2 is documented as having being initiated in 1996 by 34 universities cooperating in order to develop a next-generation Internet that would be up to a thousand times faster than the ordinary or public Internet. (Van Horn, 1998) in general parlance, Internet2 is essentially defined as a network that has been especially designed"...to provide next-generation production services as well as a platform for the development of new networking ideas and protocols." (Russo)) as a network of this type, Internet2 was created for and especially aimed at the research and education community in the United States. In more technical terms, this network was intended to provide the research and academic community with a "...dynamic, innovative and cost-effective hybrid optical and packet network." (Russo)

Internet2 Network)

Furthermore, it is much more cost effective when compared to Internet1. While speed is an advantage, security is another issue that highlights the difference between this network and more publicly accessible systems. Internet1 is continually plagued by identity theft and virus attacks, among others; whereas Internet2 is more secure due to its controlled structure. Related to this is the issue of dependability. Internet1 is often subject to various 'crashes' within the system. This system fragility if avoided in Internet2.

There are many other related advantages. For example, it facilitates advanced research more effectively and aspects such as real-time videoconferencing at schools and universities. However, there are some disadvantages. One of these disadvantages is that it has much less input and interaction than the normal Internet. This means that it is not open to the same amount of diverse views and discussion as Internet1.

This also relates to certain misconception about Internet2. One of the most common misconceptions is that it will replace Internet1 at some stage. This is not the intention. "Internet2 will not replace current Internet services for members, other organizations, or individuals. Member institutions have pledged to use existing Internet services for all network traffic that is not related to Internet2." (Van Horn, 1998, p.413)

4. Internet2, business and the future central aim of Internet2 is to "...accelerate the diffusion of advanced Internet technology, in particular into the commercial sector." (FAQs about Internet2) in other words, the technologies and the applications that are tested and developed using this network will have a long-term impact on subsequent innovations and developments that can affect the business and educational community. One of the aims is to develop new and more effective applications that can be used in the commercial environment. However, it should also en noted that the experts stress that there is no easy or envisages transition of Internet2 technology or the commercial Internet. Nevertheless, Interet2 has already resulted in a number of interesting and useful developments that bode well fort he future. An example is the Globalization Initiative originating from the University of Missouri and the Missouri Research and Education Network (MOREnet). (Cole, Ray & Zanetis, 2004, p. 104) This project has, created a global learning community using advanced technologies and Internet2 to develop and foster school/community relationships, promote cross-cultural learning, and facilitate comprehensive school improvement programs. (Cole, Ray & Zanetis, 2004, p. 104)

Pundits note that we are a still in the early stages with regard to the potential of Internet technology. The results of the experience of Internet2 are seen as a precursor to advancement and development that will in eventuality benefit the commercial and business Internet.

References www.questiaschool.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=113454035

Cole, C., Ray, K., & Zanetis, J. (2004). Videoconferencing for K-12 Classrooms: A Program Development Guide. Eugene, or: International Society for Technology in Education. Retrieved November 26, 2008, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=113454035

FAQs about Internet2. Retrieved November 26, 2008, at http://www.internet2.edu/about/faq.html www.questiaschool.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=106217067

Goodman, P.S. (Ed.). (2002). Technology Enhanced Learning: Opportunities for Change. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Retrieved November 26, 2008, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=106217070

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Retrieved November 26, 2008, at http://net.educause.edu/ir/library/html/cem/cem97/cem9722.html

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Development. Retrieved November 26, 2008, at http://www.icair.org/pr/newinit.html

Internet2 Network. Retrieved November 26, 2008, at http://www.internet2.edu/network / www.questiaschool.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=106217067

Reddy, R., & Goodma, P.S. (2002). Chapter 1 Technology Trends and Implications for Learning in Tertiary Institutions. In Technology Enhanced Learning: Opportunities for Change, Goodman, P.S. (Ed.) (pp. 3-20). Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Retrieved November 26, 2008, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=106217097

Russo a. Internet2.It's better, it's faster. You can't use it. Retrieved November 26, 2008 at http://www.slate.com/id/2120440 / www.questiaschool.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5001324143

Van Horn, R. (1998). Internet2 and InternetE. Phi Delta Kappan, 79(5), 413+. Retrieved November 26, 2008, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5001324143

Internet2