Building data centers has sparked significant controversy due to misunderstandings about their function. Often referred to simply as "data centers," these facilities are crucial for the processing of internet data, not just data storage.
• Definition and Misconception: Data centers are often misunderstood; they should be called "internet centers" because they perform essential internet processing, not just data storage.
• Internet Functionality: Data centers utilize packet switching, a method developed for secure communication. This allows data, like emails and documents, to be broken into packets, sent through routers, and reassembled, similar to physical mail but much more efficient.
• Infrastructure: Data centers contain most of the internet's routers, switches, and servers, meaning rejecting them while using the internet is contradictory.
• AI's Role: While AI contributes to internet efficiency by analyzing data, concerns about the rapid growth of data centers may be exaggerated and limited by electricity availability.
The ongoing debate around data centers might improve if they were recognized for their vital role in supporting the internet infrastructure. Understanding this could lead to more informed discussions about their impact and necessity.
https://www.cfact.org/2026/01/26/data-centers-are-the-physical-internet/
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