Internet2 working to improve bandwidth

Internet2, a nonprofit advanced networking consortium in the United States, is designing a new network that can open up paths with large amounts of dedicated bandwidth when they’re needed.

Currently, the Internet Protocol (IP) that’s in use breaks data into packets that are sent through fiber-optic cables to their destination. However, the packets don’t have to take the same path. Routers examine each packet individually and send it off on its way. The problem with this system is that large data transfers can clog the routers with many packets asking where to go next. This can result, for example, in skips in streaming video if the packets arrive out of order or at different times.

The new system would be capable of setting up a temporary direct connection that would work somewhat like a phone call. Data would all go through one path without being interrupted by the traffic of others. This way, large quantities of information could be transferred quickly, efficiently, and clearly.

Applications of this system are solely academic for now, but it could eventually reach consumers just as the current Internet did. We would then, for example, be able to watch high-definition streaming video with crystal-clear quality without needing very fast internet connections.

It’s great that groups are working on improving the Internet we know today seeing as we are already approaching its limitations. Hopefully these technologies will surface in the near future so that we can all take advantage of what the Internet has to offer.