“Run the Internet” is a 7-day challenge to show that we all have a part in running the Internet.

From 5–11 June 2024, pledge to run, walk, bike, or swim a distance of your choice on behalf of the Internet. The funds you raise will go towards Internet Society’s work to achieve an Internet for everyone.

You decide how, when, where, and how far you want to go. This is your chance to make a difference.

This year’s challenge has ended. You can still donate to support the open and global Internet.

A diverse group of individuals sitting around a table, engrossed in their work on laptops.

Why the Internet?

Can you remember what life was like before the Internet? When we had to flip through encyclopedias instead of searching Wikipedia? Or when we relied on paper maps instead of Google Maps?

The Internet is so ingrained in everything we do that we sometimes forget the sheer number of ways it has impacted our daily lives. But this Internet we know and love could deteriorate if we don’t take action. Despite how many may try, it was never meant to be run by a single entity, government, or corporation. It’s always been a resource by people, for people.

The Internet is strongest when everyone has a say. It’s our responsibility to preserve and care for it.

Not ready to join the challenge? Show your support with a donation.

How Will You Run the Internet?

Just like there are many ways that people can contribute to building and maintaining the Internet, there are countless ways that you can participate.

Are you looking to increase your step goal? Or how about completing your longest bike ride? Whether you walk, run, skip, or jump your way through this challenge, you can participate and contribute to the overall goal.

No matter your fitness level, you can take on an impactful challenge. Here are some distances you can use for inspiration:

There is only one globally connected Internet.

Set out for 1 kilometer or 1 mile. Whether you’re pushing yourself to reach the total distance or improve your time, 1 is a great goal!

5.1 miles (or 8.3 km) is the length of fibreoptic cable it took to connect the villages of Khunde and Khumjung in Nepal (the highest community network in the world).

Complete the distance in one go or take the week to traverse the length (no need to scale Mount Everest to do so).

So far in 2024, there have been 17 Internet shutdowns.

Get in 17 workouts, run 17 miles, take 17 laps—whatever works! For each one, reflect on how life disrupting an Internet shutdown can be.

Ready…Set…Run (walk, bike, swim)

Step 1: Sign Up

It only takes a few minutes to register as an individual or join as part of a team. Set your fundraising and movement challenge goals—push yourself!

Step 2: Spread the Word

Now that you are set up, let everyone know what you are doing to help make the Internet for everyone. Remember, 100% of what you raise will go to funding Internet Society’s work.

Step 3: Get Moving

Whether you pledge to move every day of the challenge or just one day, we’re here to cheer you on! Tag us in your social posts for a virtual high five.

Raise & Earn

As a global charitable organization, we rely on support from people like you, who also care about the future of the Internet. 100% of your donations will support our work, closing the digital divide and keeping the Internet trustworthy.

Raise $250 or more to get a Run the Internet t-shirt. You can support one of the existing fundraisers or start one of your own.

a dark grey t-shirt displaying the words 'Run the Internet' in black lettering.

Raise & Earn

As a global charitable organization, we rely on support from people like you, who also care about the future of the Internet. 100% of your donations will support our work, closing the digital divide and keeping the Internet trustworthy.

Raise $250 or more to get a Run the Internet t-shirt. You can support one of the existing fundraisers or start one of your own.