Understanding How Facebook Disappeared from the Internet

Hatched by Kazuki
Sep 28, 2023
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Understanding How Facebook Disappeared from the Internet
BGP, or Border Gateway Protocol, plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Internet. It serves as a mechanism to exchange routing information between autonomous systems (AS) on the Internet. In simpler terms, BGP allows different networks to communicate with each other and ensures that data is routed correctly. Without BGP, the Internet routers wouldn't know what to do, and the Internet wouldn't work.
The Internet, as we know it, is a vast network of interconnected networks. These networks are brought together by BGP, allowing them to advertise their presence to other networks. Each network has its own Autonomous System Number (ASN), which represents an individual network with a unified internal routing policy. It is essential for every ASN to announce its prefix routes to the Internet using BGP, as this is how other networks know how to connect and find them.
On a fateful day, at 1658 UTC, Facebook suddenly disappeared from the Internet. It was as if someone had "pulled the cables" from their data centers and disconnected them from the rest of the online world. The reason behind this unexpected disappearance was Facebook's decision to stop announcing the routes to their DNS (Domain Name System) prefixes through BGP. As a result, Facebook's DNS servers became unavailable, and routes were withdrawn. This effectively disconnected Facebook and its sites from the Internet.
The impact of Facebook's disappearance highlights the critical role that BGP plays in the functioning of the Internet. It serves as the backbone that keeps networks connected and ensures the smooth flow of data. Without BGP, even the most prominent players in the online world can suddenly vanish from the Internet, causing disruption and confusion.
In a similar vein, scientists have been studying the evolution of human language and communication. Recent research suggests that the first complex conversations between humans took place around 50,000 to 100,000 years ago. Professor Shigeru Miyagawa from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology argues that the hierarchical complexity found in present-day language was likely present since the emergence of human language.
According to Professor Miyagawa, single words in human language bear traces of syntax, indicating that they descended from an older, syntax-laden system rather than simple primal utterances. This suggests that the development of language in humans involved combining an "expressive" layer, similar to birdsong, with a "lexical" layer, akin to monkeys uttering isolated sounds like alarm calls.
The study also suggests that communication among our earliest ancestors may have been more complex than previously thought. It is believed that tool-making played a significant role in driving the evolution of language. As early humans engaged in DIY activities, they needed to communicate effectively to coordinate their actions and share knowledge. This increased complexity in communication paved the way for the development of more sophisticated language systems.
The parallels between the disappearance of Facebook from the Internet and the evolution of human language are intriguing. Both involve the interplay of networks and the importance of effective communication. While BGP connects networks and allows them to function seamlessly, language connects individuals and enables them to convey complex thoughts and ideas.
Looking at these two aspects together, we can draw some actionable advice applicable to both the technological and human realms:
- 1. Maintain robust communication channels: Just as BGP ensures the smooth flow of data between networks, it is crucial to establish and maintain reliable communication channels in our personal and professional relationships. Open and clear communication allows for effective collaboration and prevents misunderstandings.
- 2. Embrace complexity: Both in technology and language, complexity often leads to progress and innovation. Just as the development of syntax and complex language structures allowed for more nuanced communication among humans, embracing complexity in technology can lead to new breakthroughs and advancements.
- 3. Adaptability is key: The disappearance of Facebook from the Internet serves as a reminder that even the most established systems can face unexpected challenges. Embracing adaptability and being prepared to pivot when necessary is essential for both networks and individuals.
In conclusion, the disappearance of Facebook from the Internet sheds light on the vital role that BGP plays in keeping networks connected. Simultaneously, the study of human language evolution reveals the complexities and intricacies of communication among early humans. By understanding the common points between these two domains, we can gain valuable insights into the importance of effective communication, embracing complexity, and maintaining adaptability in our interconnected world.
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