Review of 20 Years of Internet Development in China

Abstract

In 1994, China achieved full connectivity to the Internet via a 64K IPLC (international private leased circuit), marking the inception of the Internet Age in the country. The network infrastructure has since gained momentum, alongside great improvements in network management, cutting-edge technologies and ever-growing Internet applications. Given the tremendous influence and potential the Internet industry has displayed, a look back at the past 20 years would be important for the industry to chart its future course. To this end, this book divides the Internet history of China into five stages characterized, respectively, by pioneering efforts in Internet technology, progress towards informatization, infrastructural and institutional improvements, leapfrogging Internet development and applications, and innovation in high gear. Examining the growth trajectory of the industry as well as the major developments and achievements of each period, it tries to give readers a comprehensive picture of the Internet landscape in China.