Many aspects of modern life are open for debate with regards to whether they’re a positive or a negative. We’ve all heard them, and probably joined in ourselves at some point. Smartphones, social media, gadgets aimed at children, and various other things regularly find themselves on the agenda.
One thing that links all of these in some way is the internet.
Today’s Internet Usage
What feeds much of the debate around the things listed above? Yes, the internet, but specifically, it is the 24/7, always available nature of the internet today that is the most critical factor.
As a result, people are always looking at their smartphones, constantly uploading a new photo or status update to their favorite social media account, or otherwise surfing the internet. Of course, internet usage is a huge part of life at home, too, but it is on the streets, in parks, and on public transport where its impact is most visible.
Internet Security Problems
Security and privacy problems probably aren’t at the forefront of consumer minds, but they represent the biggest potential issues with 24/7 internet connectivity. This is especially true in light of the recent advance of cloud technology.
As anyone can access public cloud services, this can also bring security issues, especially if there are flaws that can easily be exploited.
The internet is the source of controversy on an almost daily basis, whether concerning consumer products and platforms or the latest high profile hacking or document leaking story.
The soon-to-be-launched Xbox One console has been a recent source of debate. Initially, it was believed that you’d have to be online at all times to play games or use the system for anything else, whether that be watching DVD’s or simply maintaining the system. Microsoft then did an about-turn and said this wouldn’t be the case.
What was the problem? The basis was that people didn’t want to have to be connected to the internet at all times. From this, concerns about hacking, being watched through the Kinect camera, and various other issues grew. The fact Sony didn’t have an ‘always online’ need for their PlayStation 4 didn’t help Microsoft, either.
Is 24/7 Connectivity a Good Thing?
Of course, there are two sides to the argument. 24/7 internet connection capabilities has changed the way we live; whatever information we need, or whenever we want to make a purchase, wherever we are, we can do it. People are more liberated and capable than ever before thanks to the internet, and the range of possibilities individuals have is almost endless.
At the same time, such a range of possibilities does have its downsides, in particular when we think about the way some people appear to be obsessed with the internet. It is common for individuals, not just younger demographics, to become angry and aggressive when they’re unable to use the internet, for whatever reason. 24/7 internet is a great thing to have, but the feeling of it being a part of life definitely has an ugly side.
Balance
24/7 internet is here to stay, and connectivity is only set to become more powerful, whether in terms of home broadband or 4G and next generation connectivity when on the move. It will be down to individual users to ensure 24/7 internet remains a positive, and doesn’t become a strain on society, personal relationships, and jobs.
Author Bio: Marcus is a technology enthusiast passionate about the impact the internet has had on modern life, as well as having an interest in how managed VPS hosting and responsive web design can make a difference to websites.
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