"Writers of maritime history give to the United States the credit of establishing long lines of communication by sea with far-distant countries."
~ Lieutenant Ridgely Hunt, U. S. Navy - 1891
Layout of CSS Virginia - 2016
https://www.battlefields.org/learn/galleries/battle-hampton-roads
Ironclads had great influences on various parts of naval technology such as ordnance and weapons. As a result of the new tactics used by ships, technology such as munitions had to improve. Designers had to build new cannons that broke barriers through their design.
Replica of CSS Virginia - 2014
https://www.battlefields.org/learn/galleries/battle-hampton-roads
Another piece of technology that broke barriers in history were propulsion systems that adapted to propel ironclads. Ironclads were much heavier than wooden ships and thus needed stronger engines to provide propulsion. This also influenced steam power, as engines had to be small enough to fit into the vessel.
Ironclad next to the monitor - 2017
https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/u-s-s-monitor-battles-c-s-s-virginia
Battle of Hampton Roads