Networks of power. Analysing the evolution of the Danish internet infrastructure

Abstract

This article studies the evolution of the internet infrastructure and assesses emerging digital power structures and regulatory dynamics. We revisit and develop Thomas P. Hughes’ momentum theory (1994) and contend that the internet, as other large technological systems, has evolved in different phases reflecting a shift from being mainly influenced by socio-economic conditions to having a determining influence on the development of societal structures. We argue that contemporary internet infrastructure studies can benefit from Hughes’ theoretical approach, but also need to strengthen their methodological and empirical strategy. The article contributes to this by approaching the changes in digital infrastructures, markets, and state policies in Denmark from 1992 to 2019. Building on database material, we analyse the development of digital devices and internet connections, submarine fibre optic cables and internet exchange points, websites, and digital content. We conclude that the identified changes confirm Hughes’ momentum hypothesis: in the beginning the implementation of the internet reflected historical market structures and institutional characteristics, while the later development challenges and transforms the established regime.