The early internet focused on connectivity, to ensure data could be moved and shared without disruption . More recent improvements to internet infrastructure have focused on increasing the volume of data moving over networks. However, the rising importance of real-time applications like video conferencing and online gaming means that the key focus now is on how to reduce latency — the time it takes to move data across the network.
Samuel Gaw founded 54North in 2021 to address this problem of internet bottlenecks. With over 22 billion connected devices in the world, more than 20% experience network performance issues at any given time and 80% suffer major disruptions several times a day. As internet traffic volumes continue to double every two years, and the share of real-time traffic grows exponentially, the problem is only going to become more acute.
To solve the problem, Samuel did what all engineers do — he looked at the data. Relying on his background in financial trading systems and telecoms, he built a vast ‘weather map’ of the internet that tracks performance in real time to predict congestion points globally, which became the foundation of the company’s services.
This data model instantly plots alternative routes and vital milliseconds reclaimed at the earliest possible stage. Using ubiquitous protocols , it works with all devices without the need for new hardware, software packages or code changes.
Joining the Regional Talent Engines programme in 2022, Samuel says: “Early support for early ventures is vital: whether it’s in the form of grants to let founders safely make initial bets, mentor advice on the next steps in their journey or peer support, building incredible connections across industries and disciples. They’re all crucial. It’s often the difference between a ‘could have been’ and a success.”
54North is now working with many global technology companies spanning telecoms, online gaming and the Internet of Things.
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