The Internet
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Internet, or simply “the Net,” is a series of interconnected networks that use a set of protocols to exchange data via the global medium of interconnected computer networks.
What is the Internet?
The Internet is a global network of computers and devices connected by networks. The Internet is a large group of computer networks that use standard protocols to share information. It was initially developed in the 1960s as an academic research project funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and created by computer scientists interested in sharing data across multiple networks.
The Internet has since become an essential communication tool in history. It serves as both repository for data and knowledge and a means for sharing those resources with anyone who wants them—and it’s open to all people, regardless of age or location.
Origins of the Internet
The first network to use TCP/IP was ARPANET, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and used for research and development. On October 29, 1969, the first message was sent over the ARPANET network using the TCP/IP protocol. The message was created by Dr. Vinton Cerf and Robert Kahn at Stanford University. It was an ambitious project that aimed to link computers worldwide so they could share information and communicate.
The significant development in the growth of the Internet happened when Tim Berners-Lee created Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and Uniform Resource Locator (URL). These are two core protocols that allow you to navigate through websites today!
Dr. Vinton Cerf (Left) and Robert Kahn (Right). “The fathers of the Internet”
How does the Internet work?
The Internet is a network of networks. It’s made up of thousands of smaller networks connecting, allowing people worldwide to share information and communicate. There are thousands of networks across the globe (including your local area network at home) connected. These individual networks—or “nodes”—are linked together through different connections. Some may use fiber-optic cables, while others might use radio signals. Or even satellite links in remote areas where building terrestrial cables aren’t practical or cost-effective.
When you send an email or browse the Web, your computer sends data across these networks in much the same way as it would if you sent someone a letter by mail. The only difference is that your message will travel at the speed of light—and be read by anyone who has access to the network where it ends up.
How to Access the Internet?
You can access the Internet from a variety of devices, including:
- Your phone (cellular or landline)
- Your computer (P.C., laptop, tablet)
- Your T.V. or game console
Accessing the Internet on your phone is generally quicker than using your computer because it uses less data. However, many people prefer to use their computers to enjoy streaming services.
Conclusion
The Internet has become an essential tool in our everyday lives. It’s easier than ever to stay connected with friends and family, find information on anything you want or need, order things online, and have them delivered to your doorstep. We’ve come a long way since dial-up, but many improvements and future advancements are still to be made.