The Apocalypse

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Global data network ​

Modern global civilization depends on a robust, resilient, and expansive data network infrastructure. This section covers the reconstruction and operation of a global data network, often referred to as the internet, after a societal collapse. It explains the fundamental components, technologies, protocols, and organizational structures necessary to restore worldwide digital communication and data exchange.

Introduction to the global data network ​

The global data network, commonly known as the internet, is a vast interconnected system of networks that enables digital communication, data sharing, and access to information worldwide. It relies on standardized protocols, physical infrastructure, and cooperative governance to function seamlessly across countries and continents.

Rebuilding this network after a collapse requires understanding its layered architecture, from physical cables and hardware to software protocols and services. The goal is to restore connectivity that supports communication, commerce, education, and governance on a global scale.

A photo of a large-scale undersea fiber optic cable installation ship deploying cables across the ocean floor, illustrating the physical backbone of the global internet.

Physical infrastructure: cables, satellites, and data centers ​

Fiber optic and copper cables ​

The backbone of the global data network consists primarily of fiber optic cables laid underground, underwater, and across land. These cables transmit data as pulses of light, enabling high-speed, long-distance communication with minimal loss.

  • Undersea cables: Thousands of kilometers of submarine fiber optic cables connect continents, carrying over 95% of international internet traffic. Repairing or laying new cables requires specialized ships and equipment.
  • Terrestrial cables: Fiber optic and copper cables connect cities, towns, and rural areas. These cables run through conduits, poles, or underground ducts.
  • Last-mile connections: Copper telephone lines, coaxial cables, or fiber optics connect end-users to the broader network.

Restoring cable infrastructure involves inspecting existing lines, repairing breaks, replacing damaged sections, and expanding coverage to underserved areas.

Satellite communication ​

Satellites provide an alternative or complementary means of global connectivity, especially in remote or disaster-affected regions where cables are unavailable or damaged.

  • Geostationary satellites: Positioned approximately 36,000 km above the equator, they offer wide coverage but higher latency.
  • Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites: Orbiting at 500-2,000 km altitude, they provide lower latency and are increasingly used for broadband internet.

Reestablishing satellite networks requires ground stations, satellite control centers, and operational satellites in orbit. Launching new satellites demands advanced rocketry and manufacturing capabilities.

Data centers and network nodes ​

Data centers house servers, storage devices, and networking equipment that process, store, and route internet traffic. They are critical hubs for cloud services, websites, email, and other online functions.

  • Core routers and switches: Direct data packets across the network backbone.
  • Content delivery networks (CDNs): Cache data closer to users to reduce latency.
  • Internet exchange points (IXPs): Physical locations where multiple networks interconnect to exchange traffic efficiently.

Rebuilding data centers involves restoring power, cooling, hardware, and secure facilities. Establishing IXPs and peering agreements between networks is essential for efficient data flow.

A simplified global internet map showing undersea cables, satellite links, and terrestrial fiber optic networks connecting continents.

Network protocols and standards ​

The global data network operates on a suite of standardized protocols that enable devices and networks to communicate reliably.

Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) ​

  • IP (Internet Protocol): Provides addressing and routing of data packets between devices.
  • TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): Ensures reliable, ordered delivery of data.
  • UDP (User Datagram Protocol): Supports faster, connectionless communication for applications like streaming.

Understanding and implementing TCP/IP is fundamental to network interoperability.

Domain Name System (DNS) ​

DNS translates human-readable domain names (e.g., example.com) into IP addresses. It is a hierarchical, distributed database critical for web navigation and email routing.

Rebuilding DNS infrastructure requires restoring root servers, top-level domain servers, and authoritative servers for individual domains.

Routing protocols ​

Protocols like BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) manage how data is routed between autonomous systems (large networks operated by ISPs or organizations). Proper configuration ensures efficient and secure data paths.

Security protocols ​

  • TLS/SSL: Encrypts data in transit to protect privacy.
  • IPsec: Provides secure IP communication.
  • DNSSEC: Adds security to DNS queries.

Implementing security protocols is vital to protect the network from interception, tampering, and attacks.

The layered TCP/IP model, showing physical, data link, network, transport, and application layers with arrows indicating data flow.

Internet service providers and network topology ​

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) ​

ISPs connect end-users to the internet backbone. They operate infrastructure such as local access networks, regional data centers, and peering arrangements with other ISPs.

Rebuilding ISPs involves:

  • Restoring physical infrastructure (cables, towers, routers).
  • Reestablishing peering agreements and transit contracts.
  • Managing IP address allocation and customer services.

Network topology ​

The global network is organized in a hierarchical and meshed topology:

  • Core networks: High-capacity backbones connecting major cities and countries.
  • Regional networks: Intermediate networks connecting local ISPs.
  • Access networks: Last-mile connections to homes and businesses.

A resilient topology includes redundant paths to prevent outages from single points of failure.

Peering and transit ​

  • Peering: Mutual exchange of traffic between ISPs without payment.
  • Transit: Paid service where one ISP carries traffic for another.

Negotiating peering and transit agreements is essential for network efficiency and cost management.

A large internet exchange point (IXP) facility with racks of networking equipment and cables interconnecting multiple ISPs.

Rebuilding global internet governance and coordination ​

Organizations and standards bodies ​

Global internet coordination is managed by multiple organizations:

  • ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers): Oversees domain names and IP address allocation.
  • IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force): Develops and promotes internet standards.
  • ITU (International Telecommunication Union): Coordinates global telecom standards and spectrum allocation.

Reestablishing these bodies or their equivalents ensures coordinated policy, technical standards, and dispute resolution.

Regional and national internet registries ​

  • RIRs (Regional Internet Registries): Manage IP address allocation within regions.
  • National regulators: Oversee ISPs, spectrum, and compliance with laws.

Coordination between registries and regulators is necessary for orderly network operation.

Cybersecurity and law enforcement ​

Global cooperation is required to address cyber threats, including:

  • Malware and botnets.
  • Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
  • Data breaches and espionage.

Establishing frameworks for information sharing, incident response, and legal enforcement is critical.

A globe surrounded by interconnected nodes representing global internet governance organizations and cybersecurity cooperation.

Challenges in restoring the global data network ​

Infrastructure damage and scarcity ​

Post-collapse scenarios often involve damaged cables, destroyed data centers, and limited manufacturing capacity for hardware. Prioritizing repairs and resource allocation is essential.

Power and cooling requirements ​

Data centers and network equipment require reliable electricity and cooling systems. Restoring power grids or deploying renewable energy sources is a prerequisite.

Skilled personnel and knowledge retention ​

Operating and maintaining the global network demands skilled engineers, technicians, and administrators. Training programs and knowledge repositories help rebuild human capital.

Political and economic fragmentation ​

Global cooperation may be hindered by political instability, territorial disputes, or economic hardship. Building trust and agreements among stakeholders is necessary.

Security threats ​

Cybersecurity risks increase during rebuilding phases due to vulnerabilities and lack of defenses. Implementing best practices and monitoring is vital.

Steps to rebuild the global data network ​

  1. Assessment and inventory: Survey existing infrastructure, hardware, and human resources.
  2. Prioritize critical links: Repair or replace undersea cables, backbone networks, and major data centers.
  3. Restore power and cooling: Ensure stable electricity supply for network equipment.
  4. Reestablish ISPs and IXPs: Enable local and regional connectivity.
  5. Rebuild DNS and routing infrastructure: Restore domain name resolution and data routing.
  6. Implement security protocols: Protect data integrity and privacy.
  7. Coordinate governance: Rebuild or create organizations for standards, address allocation, and dispute resolution.
  8. Expand access: Deploy last-mile connections to homes, businesses, and institutions.
  9. Train personnel: Develop technical expertise for ongoing operation and maintenance.
  10. Promote international cooperation: Facilitate agreements for peering, transit, and cybersecurity.

Future-proofing and resilience ​

To ensure the global data network withstands future disruptions:

  • Redundancy: Build multiple physical paths and backup systems.
  • Decentralization: Avoid single points of failure by distributing services.
  • Open standards: Use interoperable, transparent protocols.
  • Local caching and content delivery: Reduce dependency on distant servers.
  • Community networks: Empower local groups to maintain connectivity.
  • Regular drills and updates: Prepare for emergencies and evolving threats.

Conclusion ​

Rebuilding the global data network is a complex but achievable goal critical for restoring modern civilization’s communication, commerce, and knowledge sharing. It requires coordinated efforts across technical, organizational, and political domains. By understanding the physical infrastructure, protocols, governance, and challenges involved, survivors can systematically restore a resilient and functional internet that reconnects humanity worldwide.

A diverse group of engineers collaborating in a modern data center, surrounded by racks of servers and networking equipment, symbolizing teamwork in rebuilding the global internet.