The Truth of the Matter
Protecting the Backbone of the Internet
Feb 24, 2025
Erin Murphy, Deputy Director at CSIS, specializes in subsea cables and their link to global security. She delves into why these cables are crucial for internet connectivity, handling 95% of online activity. The conversation highlights the risks of sabotage amidst great power competition, particularly with China. Murphy discusses Egypt's key role and the geopolitical intricacies involved in managing these infrastructures. Additionally, she shares insights on the need for innovative policies and international cooperation to ensure the resilience of this vital backbone of the internet.
22:45
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Quick takeaways
- Subsea cables are essential for global internet connectivity, handling 95% of internet traffic and major financial transactions.
- Geopolitical tensions increase the risk of sabotage to subsea cables, necessitating cooperative security measures between governments and the private sector.
Deep dives
The Backbone of the Internet
Subsea cables are critical for global internet connectivity, handling approximately 95% of all internet traffic. They facilitate essential services such as texting, emailing, and financial transactions, with a single bank transmitting nearly $3.9 trillion through these cables. Despite their vital role, many people underestimate their importance, believing internet connectivity comes primarily from satellites or wireless signals. The reality is that the majority of our digital communications rely on these undersea infrastructures, making them an essential component of modern life and global security.
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