Global internet shutdown likely in next 48 hrs

Internet users across the world may experience network failures for some time as key domain servers are slated to undergo routine maintenance and will be powered down. Connection issues may be faced for 48 hours due to the global internet shutdown.

According to a Reuters report published in Russia Today, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which maintains the registry of domain names and IP addresses, will be changing the cryptographic key that helps protect the Domain Name System (DNS) or the internet's address book.

"To further clarify, some internet users might be affected if their network operators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have not prepared for this change. However, this impact can be avoided by enabling the appropriate system security extensions," it said.

Quoting an analyst from the Mobile Research Group Eldar Murtazin, the Russia Today report said  internet users might face some difficulties for 48 hours. The problems will be regarding access to some resources, and slow loading of pages. The analyst also cautioned that some users with an outdated provider might have problems with access to the network.

ICANN claims to have already carried out some preliminary tests that showed the process would create minimal problems.

Arseny Shcheltsin, a specialist in digital economics, reassured people that there is nothing to fear, since the main software has already been successfully updated.

The procedure for changing cryptographic keys has become necessary as a result of rising threats for the internet infrastructure.

In a statement, the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) said the global internet shutdown was necessary to ensure a secure, stable and resilient DNS. "To further clarify, some internet users might be affected if their network operators or Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have not prepared for this change. However, this impact can be avoided by enabling the appropriate system security extensions," it added.

Copyright: The Statesman/ Asia News Network (ANN)