The Obama administration is funding so-called "shadow" internet and cell phone networks, which allow activists to operate independently of government controls.

The "shadow" networks are portable kits that fit in suitcases, which could maintain ad-hoc computer networks useful to activists in places where internet is either inaccessible or being monitored.

One team of technologists in Washington, DC, has received a government grant to build a portable network.

Al Jazeera's Monica Villamizar had the opportunity to meet them. She reports from the US capital.