In the world of technology, big things are always happening under the surface. Today, we’re discussing a major debate over how we’ll connect to the Internet in the future, celebrating a tech leader who is changing the definition of success, and unpacking a critical security reminder for everyone who uses the web.
The Future of the Internet: Satellites vs. Fibre Optics
A fascinating debate is unfolding over how to bring high-speed internet to everyone, especially those in rural and underserved areas. On one side, you have SpaceX’s Starlink, a satellite internet service that beams connectivity down from space. They argue that building out traditional fibre optic networks using underground glass cables is slow and expensive. They believe their satellite solution can get people online faster and more efficiently.
Conversely, fibre proponents argue it’s the gold standard for a reason. Fibre optic connections offer breakneck speeds and reliability that are hard to beat. While the upfront work is significant, it’s an investment in long-term infrastructure. For the average person, this isn’t just about corporate competition; it’s about what kind of internet we’ll rely on for decades. Will we prioritize the speed of deployment with satellites, or invest in the long-term performance of fibre? The outcome will shape how millions work, learn, and connect online. It’s a classic technology question of a disruptive new approach versus a robust, established method.
When Tech Success Fuels Unprecedented Generosity
Not every day you hear about a tech founder deciding to give away nearly their entire fortune, but that’s precisely what Judy Faulkner, the CEO of Epic Systems, has pledged to do. Epic is a name you might not know, but their software is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, managing the electronic health records for millions of patients. This story is remarkable not just for the incredible generosity but for what it says about the impact of technology in critical fields.
While we often focus on consumer gadgets, enterprise software like Epic’s is the invisible engine running in the background of our lives. Building a company that becomes essential to the healthcare industry creates immense value, and Faulkner’s decision to direct that wealth toward charity is a powerful statement. It’s a reminder that the goal of technology isn’t just about creating wealth, but about solving fundamental problems and, for some leaders, using the success from those solutions to make a broader impact on the world.
A Security Warning: That VPN Extension Might Not Be Your Friend
Here’s a crucial reminder about online safety. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is designed to protect your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic. Many people use them as browser extensions for convenience. However, a recent discovery found that a popular Chrome VPN extension with over 100,000 installs was doing the exact opposite of protecting users—it was taking screenshots of every single website they visited.
This is a stark reminder that not all software is created equal, especially when it’s free. Browser extensions can be beneficial but also require a high level of trust, as they have access to what you do online. The key takeaway is to be cautious and deliberate about what you install on your browser. Always check the developer’s reputation, read reviews carefully, and pay close attention to the permissions an extension asks for. Your digital privacy is valuable, and taking a few extra moments to vet the tools you use is one of the best ways to protect it.
Technology is woven into every part of our lives, from the foundational infrastructure of the internet to the software that powers our hospitals and the tools we use to stay safe online. Understanding these developments helps us become more intelligent, safer, and informed digital citizens. The key is to remain curious and always be willing to ask how these tools are changing our world.
