Network Evolution
This timeline displays the evolution of the Internet/WWW (top) and accompanying new software and applications (bottom). It should be a handy reference as you read through the required historical readings below.
- http://www.evolutionoftheweb.com/?hl=en#/evolution/day — This fascinating timeline reflects the evolution of Internet browsers and technologies as well as the growth of global Internet users and traffic. You should explore it thoroughly as every element in this timeline reveals information (just click on it). Notice the amount of innovative activity in Browsers and Technologies timeline after the release of Chrome browser in 2008. It is not comprehensive, of course, but instead highlights significant changes. Note the clusters of innovation 1994-1999 (pre-tech bubble) and then in the last 3-4 years.
- Notice the constant emergence of new social software and apps after the 1990s. We cannot even imagine what the Internet landscape will look like in 20 years…
To experience what the first Internet was like visit http://info.cern.ch/ for an amazing and revealing adventure (especially if you use the line-mode simulator) that puts contemporary Internet world in perspective!
Readings
- Before the Internet: Vannevar Bush and The Memex
- Before the Internet: J.C.R. Licklider, the Universal Network, and Netizens
- A Brief History of the Internet