Deep Packet Inspection: Shaping the Internet and the Implications on Privacy and Security

Abstract

ABSTRACT In recent debates on the issues of privacy and the Internet, Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) has been grossly oversimplified as a technology that is primarily harmful to consumers. Much of the commentary has been based on a poor understanding of what DPI is and how DPI works. All too often the debate over DPI is focused on unrelated issues such as free speech and censorship, which are largely political and not technological issues. DPI usage has been described as a violation of consumer privacy when the reality is far more complex and nuanced. What has been missing is a broader discussion on the full nature and application of DPI technology; DPI enables a wide range of applications, most of which are not only positive but also essential to the survival of the Internet. This paper will explain how DPI technology works and explore practical applications of its use. DPI will be an important tool to control economies of scale with the explosive growth of the Internet. While there will always be privacy concerns over the intrusive nature of DPI technology, this worry will be overshadowed by the security and control it allows.