Innovation

President Obama's new approach to cybersecurity likely is more of an Internet game-changer than many appreciate. Initial reporting and commentary has been superficial and has not connected dots or analyzed the broader logical implications of this new policy emphasis and trajectory.   

Why is it a game-changer for the Internet?

• First, it formalizes a new leading priority for the Internet.
• Second, it formalizes the lack of cybersecurity as the Internet's leading problem.
• Third, it practically redefines what "open Internet" means.
• Fourth, it practically takes any extreme form of net neutrality off the table. 

Moreover, the new cybersecurity focus will likely have a practical effect on the trajectory of Internet 3.0, which embodies:

• Cloud computing (where security has not been a primary priority by many);
• The Mobile web (where security has always been a very high priority); and
• The Internet of Things (where security will be imperative to prevent theft, intrusion, and sabotage).

I.   Cybersecurity -- New #1 Internet Priority

President Obama said: