India Chennai

Who steers the Internet?

The Internet is a loosely-organised network of networks, which crosses national boundaries and
spans the globe. These autonomous and independent networks form the Internet by voluntarily
supporting host-to-host communication through the open protocols and procedures defined in
the Internet Standards.
So, does this mean no one is at the helm of the Internet?
There is no single body that controls all aspects of the Internet. However, the Internet Standards,
which define the fundamental technical characteristics of the Internet, are developed by a group of
bodies organised and supported by the Internet Society (ISOC). These bodies are Internet
Engineering Task Force (IETF), the Internet Architecture Board (IAB), the Internet Engineering
Steering Group (IESG), the Internet Research Steering Group (IRSG), the Internet Research Task
Force (IRTF), and the RFC Editor (which publishes the Internet Standards and other Internet
documents).
More about ISOC
ISOC is a centre for global coordination and cooperation on the Internet. As well as supporting
the development of technical standards, ISOC works closely with other organisations, such as
ICANN, the Regional Internet Registries, operator groups, domain name registrar organisations,
and many others. ISOC is active in Internet activities ranging from grass roots development
programmes and education, through to Internet governance discussions and policy making forums
at the highest international levels.
ISOC in India
ISOC has “chapters” around the world. A chapter is a group of ISOC members who come
together to represent the Internet needs of their community and to pursue ISOC’s mission of an
Internet for everyone. In India there are currently two chapters, ISOC India - Chennai and ISOC
India - New Delhi.
Membership at ISOC India - Chennai
Membership in our chapter is open to anyone in Tamilnadu, Karnataka, Kerala, AP, and
Pondichery who is interested in the growth and evolution of the Internet. To join us, follow the
simple procedure outlined at: http://www.isocindiachennai.in/members.html. Or leave a message
in the contact form. Membership is free and is in various categories for professinals and students.

Internet Society India Chennai

389 / 1 Perundurai Road, Erode 638 011 TN India
Tel: +91 424 4030334 / + 91 99524 03099
http://www.isocindiachennai.in
http://isocmadras.blogspot.com/