The Internet's Technical Success Factors

An analytical framework developed in collaboration with APNIC about the technical properties that explain why the Internet has been able to grow and evolve while maintaining its functionality on a global scale.

Introduction

In 2021, APNIC and LACNIC commissioned Analysys Mason to conduct a study aimed at identifying and connecting the technical factors that have contributed to the Internet's growth and evolution, avoiding subjective or geopolitical interpretations of how it operates. The full report is available in English.

Contribution of the study

The study proposes a framework based on four “dimensions of success” and links them to technical properties and design decisions that have allowed the Internet to scale, integrate new technologies and applications, and continue to operate despite changes and shocks.

The four dimensions to the Internet's success

  • Scalability: The ability to grow in users, networks, and usage without core redesigns.
  • Flexibility: The ability to coexist with different underlying technologies and evolve the infrastructure.
  • Adaptability: The ability to support new applications and traffic patterns over time.
  • Resilience: The ability to absorb failures, attacks, and operational changes while continuing to function.

Principles that help explain these dimensions

The report also highlights guiding ideals (openness, simplicity, and decentralization) and design principles that help interpret the technical evolution of the Internet (for example, layering, network of networks, and end-to-end), highlighting that, in practice, these principles may be tested or adapted over time without losing the key dimensions of success.

Read the full study

The study was commissioned and sponsored by APNIC and LACNIC and prepared by Analysys Mason (published in December 2021).

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