Networks of New York

Networks of New York is a field guide to the physical infrastructure of the internet as it exists on the streets of New York City. Through illustrations and explanations, the book identifies and decodes the various markers, equipment, and structures that make up the city's internet and telecommunications systems. The guide examines manhole covers, spray paint markings, antennas, cameras, and other components that are hidden in plain sight throughout the urban landscape. It teaches readers to spot and understand these elements of physical internet infrastructure that most people walk past without noticing. The book functions as both a practical manual for identifying network infrastructure and a meditation on how the internet manifests in physical space. Through its examination of these overlooked details, Networks of New York reveals the complex systems that underlie our digital connections and shape our daily lives.

Readers describe this field guide as a practical introduction to identifying physical internet infrastructure in urban environments, particularly New York City. Readers appreciated: - Clear illustrations and photographs - Accessible explanations of technical concepts - Compact size for carrying while exploring - Focus on concrete, observable infrastructure Common criticisms: - Too brief at 112 pages - Limited geographical scope beyond NYC - Basic information that tech-savvy readers already know - Lack of depth on historical context Review Scores: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (224 ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (31 ratings) Notable reader comments: "Perfect for urban exploring and understanding what's hiding in plain sight" - Goodreads reviewer "Wanted more technical details about how the infrastructure actually works" - Amazon reviewer "The illustrations are the highlight - clear and helpful for identifying equipment" - Goodreads reviewer "More like an extended zine than a comprehensive guide" - Amazon reviewer

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🌆 The author spent years photographing and documenting New York City's internet infrastructure, decoding the various markings, symbols, and hardware that most people walk past without noticing daily. 🔍 Many of the mysterious markings on NYC sidewalks are actually part of "One Call" marking systems, which help prevent accidental damage to underground cables during construction work. 📡 The book reveals that some of New York's most important internet infrastructure is hidden in plain sight, with major data centers disguised as ordinary office buildings in Manhattan. 🏛️ The iconic art deco Western Union Building at 60 Hudson Street, built in 1930, has evolved from handling telegraph messages to becoming one of the world's most important telecommunications hubs. 🔌 The surveillance cameras, wireless routers, and fiber optic cables detailed in the book form what Burrington calls the "physical face of the internet" – challenging the common notion that the internet exists only in virtual space.