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Information theory quantifies and compresses data without degrading its integrity. Claude E. Shannon’s work laid the groundwork for efficient data transmission. It is used in fields such as quantum computing, data analytics, and cryptography. ZIP files and compressed audio and video files are examples of its application. Information theory enables modern devices and technological advances, including internet access and compact disc storage.
Information theory is a process that focuses on the task of quantifying information. Quantification of information is achieved by identifying viable methods to compress and communicate data without causing and degrading data integrity. Information theory can be used in a number of different fields, including quantum computing, data analytics, and cryptography.
The origin of modern information theory is usually attributed to Claude E. Shannon. His work A Mathematical Theory of Communication, first published in 1948, lays the groundwork for quantifying and compressing data into viable units that can be archived for easy later retrieval. His basic approach provided the tools needed to improve the efficiency of early mainframe computer systems and easily translated into the advent of desktop computers during the 1970s decade.
As a branch of both electrical engineering and applied mathematics, information theory seeks to discover the most efficient ways to transmit data, within the limitations of the data itself. The idea is to ensure that mass transit of data does not degrade quality in any way, even if the data is compressed in some way. Ideally, the data can be restored to its original form once it reaches its destination. In some cases, however, the goal is to allow data to be converted into a form for mass transmission, reception at the termination point, and easily converted to a format other than the original without losing any of the transmitted information.
One application of information theory that many people will be familiar with is the use of ZIP files to compress documents for transmission by email or as part of data archiving procedures. Data compression allows the transmission to be completed in less time. At the receiving end, the software is used to release or unzip the folder and restore the documents contained in the ZIP file to their original format.
Information theory is also used with other file types. For example, audio and video files played on an MP3 player are compressed for easy download and storage on the device. When accessed, files expand and are immediately available for use.
Many other modern devices and technological advances that people use every day are made possible by the application of information theory. Internet access and function would not be possible without information theory. Likewise, the storage capacity of a compact disc is directly related to the usage of this theory.
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