Routing: Finding Data Fast

Welcome back to A Machine w/ Jace, this week’s article is the second in a two-part series covering networking and routing. Last edition I covered the question, What is a Network? This week, keep reading to understand the underlying technology behind serving data and content across networks.

Skip Ahead

• News: Bite-sized automation & AI headlines

• Lesson: Routing: Who Gets What, When

• Virtual Networking: Curated free virtual opportunities

• Tool Spotlight: StayFocusd Chrome extension

• Wrap-Up

_{Catch up on the latest A.I. & Biz Tech news, announcements, and amusement with A Machine. This week’s email will teach you about embedded systems.}

NEWS
Bite-sized Automation & AI headlines.

🤖 Boston Dynamics showcases their improved Atlas robot, exhibiting human-like movement

🖥️ Alibaba and Lenovo collaborate on AI-driven PCs, aiming to win the AI tech race.

🥑 Aldi partners with Grabango to launch checkout-free technology, currently piloted in Chicago

LESSON
Routing: Who Gets What, When.

Introduction to Routing
Building on our previous discussion about networks, this edition dives into routing—the pivotal process that dictates how data travels across your network and the broader internet. All networks, big or small, are comprised of the same technical components. Routing isn't just about the paths data takes; it's about ensuring these paths are optimal and secure.

What Is Routing?
Routing determines the pathways that data follows from one network segment to another or across multiple networks. This is responsible for serving all types of data content online. Whether or not you get to browse a webpage or stream a video is a routing instance.

Exploring Routing Types: Static and Dynamic

• Static Routing: Involves manually setting fixed routes within the routing table that do not change unless manually adjusted. This method is straightforward and stable, ideal for small, controlled environments where routes do not need frequent updates.

• Dynamic Routing: Adapts to changes in the network in real-time, dynamically calculating the most efficient and reliable routes based on current network conditions.

Key Routing Protocols
Routing protocols vary widely, each designed for specific network needs:

• RIP (Routing Information Protocol): Best for smaller, less complex networks.

• OSPF (Open Shortest Path First): Suitable for large enterprise networks, it quickly recalculates routes as network conditions change.

• BGP (Border Gateway Protocol): The backbone of the internet, BGP manages how data packets are routed between different networks, making it crucial for internet-wide data transmission.

The Technical Impact of Routing on Internet Experience

Efficient routing protocols are critical for ensuring that your online activities are smooth, secure, and interruption-free. Google serves content quickly and reliably using a global network of data centers for dynamic routing with BGP.

NETWORK & EDUCATION
Curated Virtual Opportunities 🌐

Virtual Networking 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 

April 30 - Reserve free tickets for the Los Angeles Area Virtual Diversity Job Fair on EventBrite.

Virtual Course of the Week 📚️ 

Learn more about computer networking with this detailed course taught by Google, The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking.

TOOL SPOTLIGHT
StayFocusd: Enhanced Productivity with Distraction Blocking

StayFocusd is a Chrome extension designed to boost your focus by limiting the amount of time you can spend on distracting websites. This powerful tool allows users to set specific time constraints for sites like Facebook, YouTube, and Reddit, ensuring that you stay on task. I find this extension incredibly useful as I tend to procrastinate and struggle to meet my goals. I particularly like its witty prompts that deter extending browsing time, helping me stay focused. I recommend tailoring the extension settings to suit your specific needs, schedule, and tendencies for optimal results.

Please Reply to these emails with feedback or any topics you are interested in.

WRAP UP
See you scholars next week 🧑‍🎓 

This concludes the first 2-part series on A Machine w/ Jace. Networking and routing are two topics that billions interact with daily but have almost zero knowledge of. Understanding these technologies is critical to systems thinking and troubleshooting for us developers and engineers.

Thanks for reading,
See you Monday!

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Jace