Who runs the internet?
I’m not a conspiracy theorist but everyday, it becomes clearer to me that global connectivity (read: the internet) is going to be the tool for world domination. That, and emojis.
So, I think it’s really important to know who runs this internet thingy. Is it Google? I mean, at this point, they have enough data on almost everybody. Is it the illuminati? Secrecy fits their rumoured MO (plus they get blamed for every other thing nowadays).
According to the geniuses at WhoIsHostingThis, there are actually six organizations that run the internet. And Google is nowhere in sight.
1. International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Established in 1865, this is the High Court of the internet, so to say. Their job is to ensure fair play across the internet, on an international scale. They also have the unenviable task of putting an end to spam mail, forever. Good luck with that last one.
2. Internet Architecture Board (IAB)
Established in 1992, the board oversees tech and development of the internet and is also responsible for internet standards/protocols such as TCP and IP.
3. The Internet Society (ISOC)
Born in 1992, ISOC’s main task is maintaining the integrity of the internet. For example, they make sure the .org domain is restricted to “empowering, non commercial use”.
4. The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)
They provide guidance on how the internet can be redesigned and managed. In short, the fine tune the internet.
5. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)
ICANN ensures that no two connections have the same name. Like a really technical Google Maps.
6. Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
This is the one we’re most familiar with. They supply the internet to users and are so powerful that they can screw with your Netflix.
Full Infographic below
Source: WhoIsHostingThis.com
Photo Credit: lopongoaca via Compfight cc
