Digital Infrastructure
The digital infrastructure, probably the least eye-catching in our group of technologies, is the most essential. Without it, none of the ever-changing, emerging, and disruptive digital technologies can function properly. The smooth operation of the digital infrastructure relies on three main layers: (a) the telecommunication layer, which carries all digital traffic, for example, a medium like fibre cables or wireless signals; (b) the transport layer, which enables computers and networks to communicate with each other and exchange data (TCP/IP); and (c) the content and applications layer, where a wide variety of standards enables computers to communicate with users, including, for example, HTML for web browsing.
International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU’s) work facilitates the global interconnection and interoperability of telecommunication facilities, ranging from devices and networks to services. It’s the reason why your phone can still connect to WiFi anywhere you go! The Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development, in turn, involves a cross-cutting group of industry leaders, government representatives, and international experts to advocate for achieving universal and meaningful broadband connectivity by advancing digital infrastructure in underserved areas.
