Bidkar explains how and why the internet has truly become the backbone of modern society.
Most people both enjoy and need the internet. It’s been around since 1969, and since then, its expansion and evolution have been immense and incessant. The average person is online for about 13 hours a day, on at least of the internet’s billion-plus websites (Google is #1, just by the way). This transformative technology has revolutionized our modes of communication, learning, and conducting business.
Indeed, the “world wide web” (as it was once called) has evolved from a novelty to a necessity, becoming the core infrastructure that powers our global society. In the 21st century, few technologies have made such a profound impact on every facet of human life as the internet.
Rugved Bidkar, a seasoned product manager with a deep understanding of high-speed networking technologies, explains why the internet is truly the backbone of modern society.
“The internet is more than just a network of connected devices; it’s a catalyst for global connectivity and economic growth,” says Bidkar. The rapid expansion of digital connectivity has catalyzed the rise of globalized trade, making the world a smaller, more connected place. Companies can now conduct business 24/7 with partners and customers worldwide. This round-the-clock global trade has led to increased productivity, more competitive markets, and greater economic opportunities.
Rugved Bidkar at Optical Fiber Conference 2019 in San Diego
And the internet has become the central hub for knowledge and information sharing. From research and academic resources to real-time news updates, the internet provides a sea of information, making knowledge more democratic and accessible. “Knowledge is power, and the internet has democratized this power,” Bidkar affirms.
Online education and e-learning have also been transformative, providing opportunities for individuals worldwide to learn and grow. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and other online learning platforms have enabled access to quality education, breaking the barriers of geography, and socioeconomic status. “Education was once a privilege of the few – mostly the rich,” Bidkar shares. “But now it’s been democratized by the internet, creating a more level playing field for people from all walks of life.”
The internet has also revolutionized communication. Every day, it’s creating stronger relationships between individuals and communities. Social media platforms have made it easier than ever to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on a global scale. The internet has also enabled the rise of teleworking and remote collaboration, allowing businesses to tap into a global talent pool.
“The internet’s transformative power extends to sectors like healthcare, where telemedicine and health informatics have become critical, especially in the wake of global health crises,” explains Bidkar. Digital health technologies have empowered individuals with health information, made healthcare more accessible, and created an avenue for remote diagnosis and treatment.
But despite its many benefits, the internet also poses challenges, like data privacy concerns and the digital divide, which leaves those without internet access at a disadvantage. “Bridging the digital divide is one of the most critical challenges facing society,” says Bidkar. “We need to make sure that everyone, regardless of their location or economic status, has access to the internet.”
Cybersecurity is another major issue. There’s an increasing reliance on digital systems, so protecting these systems from cyber threats has become paramount. “We need robust cybersecurity frameworks and secure high-speed networking technologies to ensure the safety of users and the integrity of the digital infrastructure,” advises Bidkar.
To further expand and secure the internet’s capabilities, the development of advanced technologies like 400G high-speed networking plays a crucial role. “400G technology is not just about speed; it’s about capacity, efficiency, and security. It’s about empowering AI applications, accelerating scientific research, and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve,” says Bidkar.
The internet has truly become the backbone of modern society, driving economic growth, facilitating global communication, democratizing education, and revolutionizing sectors like healthcare. However, ensuring universal access, data security, and privacy remains a challenge that needs collective effort. “The internet is a powerful tool,” Bidkar says. “With the right approach, we can leverage it to create a more inclusive, knowledgeable, and secure global society.”
Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rugvedbidkar
