Do you remember the anonymous threat to destroy the internet by targeting 16 root DNS servers, making it impossible to access information through domain name requests?



This would cause error pages for anyone trying to access sites like "http://www.google.com". However, it's important to note that the internet is not just a virtual space, but also physical, with cables transmitting signals underwater. These cables are vulnerable and have been damaged in the past due to natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. Despite this, the network has been able to function using satellite channels as a backup.

One of the main vulnerabilities of the internet is the concentration of reference communication nodes, such as the underwater highways that serve as anchor points for the cables. Destructing these anchor points can cause serious harm to the network. Although private companies try to keep the coordinates of the entry and exit points secret, they are often discovered over time. Therefore, while we don't encourage any destructive actions, it's important to consider the possibility of a network failure due to the destruction of its components.

During a solar flare, the magnetic field around the Sun can't contain the mass from its coronal ejection causing a rapid rush of particles that increase the concentration of ions. Within seconds, the Sun can lose billions of tons of matter. The speed of the solar wind ranges from 300-1300 km/s, and when it reaches Earth, it can cause ionized plasma which can lead to magnetic storms. Magnetic fields are destroyed by these disturbances, and if the flow is strong enough, it can affect satellites and equipment on Earth's surface.

The Carrington event in 1859 left telegraph communication completely disabled in Europe and the USA. The energy released was 22 times stronger than the asteroid that killed the dinosaurs, and the substance reached Earth's magnetosphere within 18 hours. Northern Lights were seen around the world, even in the Caribbean. In 754 AD, there was an even more powerful outbreak that could have destroyed the power grid and caused a 22% decrease in the ozone layer. The probability of such an outbreak is estimated at 1 event every 1256 years. As such, monitoring with space solar observatories like SOHO is extremely important in predicting coronal mass ejections and preparing for their potential impact on Earth.

Engineers, I have a question for you. Is there a way to create a magneto protection for crucial HDD backups that will safeguard the data from being erased by an electromagnetic pulse, as discussed in the topic?
One idea I had was constructing a box using thick steel.

Could someone provide me with an estimation of the case's thickness and the type of material needed?

In my opinion, the problem is blown out of proportion. The solution is simply to AVOID using external wires longer than 35 centimeters with the drive.

However, it's important to note that even without any external wires, drives could still fail during thunderstorms. This suggests that the energy density of a magnetic storm may not necessarily be greater than that of a local thunderstorm.

The difference lies in the scale of these storms; telegraph lines and other electrical circuits form extensive networks which can create secondary induced fields. Thus, it's best to store the drive away from power and signal lines to minimize the risk of damage.

You've overstated the impact of solar wind-induced electromagnetic (EM) disturbances on colors.

Any reinforced concrete building that is grounded properly can act as a Faraday cage. Monolithic reinforced concrete buildings are even better in this regard as they have more reinforcement joints and they are more reliable.

It's important to note that the events of the late 19th century cannot be applied to today's context. This is because the impact of EM interference on telegraph wires suspended in the air that were tens of kilometers long is vastly different from the impact on underground or underwater fiber cables with power veins.

Even if there were a Very Low Overpressure Shock (VLOS) and Electromagnetic Impulse (EMI) caused by a nuclear explosion in the air, it would not be too destructive.

It's crucial to stay informed about potential threats to the internet infrastructure, such as the possibility of targeting root DNS servers. Additionally, the physical vulnerabilities of the internet, including underwater cables and communication nodes, highlight the need for backup systems and ongoing security measures.

Furthermore, the impact of natural phenomena, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections, on the Earth's magnetic field and technology infrastructure is a significant concern. Monitoring and predicting these events through space solar observatories like SOHO are essential for preparing for their potential impact.

Certainly, maintaining the cybersecurity and integrity of the internet infrastructure is essential for ensuring the continuous flow of information and services. In particular, addressing the physical vulnerabilities such as the concentration of communication nodes and the susceptibility of underwater cables to damage is critical. This involves not only implementing robust security measures but also developing contingency plans and redundant systems to mitigate the impact of potential disruptions.

The potential threats posed by solar flares and coronal mass ejections require a comprehensive approach. This includes monitoring and early warning systems, coupled with the development of technologies to shield critical infrastructure from the effects of space weather phenomena. Undertaking research into the potential impacts of such events and implementing proactive strategies to minimize their consequences is imperative.

A magnetic storm, also known as a geomagnetic storm, refers to a disturbance in the Earth's magnetosphere caused by solar wind activity or solar flares. While these phenomena are natural occurrences, they can have significant impacts on various technologies on Earth. Here are some of the devastating effects of a magnetic storm on Earth's technology:

1. Power Grid Disruptions: Magnetic storms can induce electric currents in power lines and disrupt electrical transmission and distribution systems. The increased currents can overload transformers and other electrical equipment, leading to blackouts or brownouts.

2. Satellite Communication Interference: The increased levels of solar radiation during a magnetic storm can affect satellite communication systems. Disruptions in the signals can lead to communication failures, affecting telecommunications, GPS navigation, weather forecasting, and remote sensing capabilities.

3. Radio System Interference: Magnetic storms can cause ionospheric disturbances, impacting radio wave propagation. This interference can disrupt radio communications, including broadcasting, air traffic control systems, and emergency communication networks.

4. Damage to Spacecraft: Magnetic storms can pose a threat to spacecraft and satellites orbiting the Earth. The increased radiation levels can damage onboard electronics, disrupt communication links, and induce system failures.

5. Increased Pipeline Corrosion: Magnetic storms can induce strong electrical currents in long conductive structures such as oil and gas pipelines. These currents can accelerate corrosion, leading to potential leaks or damage to the infrastructure.

6. Aurora-Related Disruptions: The beautiful auroras that occur during magnetic storms can interfere with sensitive optical automated systems, such as astronomical observations or satellite imaging.

7. Impact on Electronic Devices: Magnetic storms can induce surges in power and disrupt electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and communication equipment. These surges can cause damage or data loss in affected devices.

To mitigate the devastating effects of magnetic storms, efforts are made to monitor solar activity and detect impending storms. Early warning systems allow operators to take precautionary measures, such as temporarily shutting down sensitive systems, grounding equipment, or implementing backup power systems.

DNS root zones are hardened with multi-layered defenses and distributed Anycast nodes, making total disruption improbable.
The real Achilles' heel lies in physical layer vulnerabilities - submarine cable cuts and PoP chokepoints. Solar flares and CMEs pose systemic risks, but modern grid hardening and satellite redundancy reduce catastrophic impact.