The Future of the Internet

The Internets continuing growth, stability, and security are vital to the Department of Defenses DoD mission. While the DoD no longer controls Internet decision making, its unique perspective deriving from its multiple roles as Internet user, operator, and research center is important to the development and protection of U.S. national interests. It should make a commitment to participate directly in international Internet decision-making forums, as well as actively develop policy as part of the U.S. interagency process. The DoD finds itself in a unique position to play a positive role. It is a major user of the Internet, but it is also a large Internet service provider and an operator of two of the 13 root zone servers that provide the basic information for locating Internet addresses. The DoD is also a repository of vast technical expertise about the Internet and a significant source of research funds. Taken together, those multiple roles give the DoD a unique view of the Internet and a distinct ability to positively influence its evolution in ways not easily matched by other U.S. Government departments or the private sector. Those perspectives -- individually and in combination -- are critical for the DoD to carry out its larger mission assuring the security and stability of the Internet as part of its defense of U.S. national security. The following questions are integral to an Internet Governance and Security Strategy for the defense community 1 What should the Internet look like in 10 or 20 years to ensure it remains a secure link to our allies, the defense community global supply chain, and the civilian infrastructure on which the USG depends 2 What should the Internet look like in 10 or 20 years to maximize its ability to support other USG interests and 3 What steps should the national security community take today to ensure that the security and stability of the Internets infrastructure are protected to support future operations