The notice followed a series of break-ins to Internet computers both within and outside of the United States. The hearing will also evaluate the status of security on the Internet today and examine measures currently available to enhance security, assess the effectiveness and degree of implementation of such measures, and identify obstacles to enhancing Internet security. In the United States, both government and non-government sponsored networks are connected through the Internet. There are an estimated 25 million Internet users worldwide, with the number growing by 15 to 20 percent each month. The Internet is valued for its ad hoc evolution, open structure, and democratic decision making.
Membership is open to anyone.
The ISOC is governed by a board of trustees elected by ISOC members. The ISOC sponsors protocol development for the Internet. The IAB looks at the overall architecture and growth of the Internet. The IETF develops protocols and chooses standards for the Internet. Its membership consists of technical people who participate in one or more of IETF's 60 to 80 working groups.