What is Internet
What is Internet
Internet is a global network that connects millions of computers across the world. It uses standard internet protocol suite (TCP/IP) to connect billions of computer users worldwide. It is set up by using electronic, wireless and networking technologies. It is the fastest mean of sending or exchanging information and data between computers across the world.
Who Created the Internet?
The Internet began in 1969 as a research project funded by the Department of Defense with a goal of creating a means of communication beside telephone lines. The first network was called ARPANET (Advanced Research Project Agency NETwork). The focus was on communicating in the event part of the network was disabled. This early network was the precursor to the Internet. It was limited in function but launched the idea of a different method of communication.
How Does Information Move Across the Internet?
Information moves across the Internet much like UPS delivers packages. When you order something, it could be boxes in multiple packages because one box would be too large to deliver. A message or webpage is broken down into packets to be delivered to your computer. Each packet has addressing information so that it knows where it is going. Your message or webpage could be broken down into many packets and each packet will have the address and the number of the packet so that when it gets to its final destination your computer or email server will know how to put the packet together to make a meaningful message.
In the beginning, most information moved across telephone lines using a modem and dial up connection. This method of connection, slow and unreliable, is still available. Today, though, we have connections, such as ISDN - Integrated Service Digital Network, DSL - Digital Subscriber Line, T1 and T3 lines, that provide faster speeds. You can also get the Internet over your local cable TV lines and by satellite. No matter how you connect to the Internet, it has likely become a vital part of your everyday life.
Advantages of Internet
E-mail: Email is now an essential communication tools in business. With e-mail you can send and receive instant electronic messages, which works like writing letters.
24 hours a day - 7 days a week: Internet is available, 24x7 days for usage.
Information: Information is probably the biggest advantage internet is offering. There is a huge amount of information available on the internet for just about every subject, ranging from government law and services, trade fairs and conferences, market information, new ideas and technical support.
Services: Many services are provided on the internet like net banking, job searching, purchasing tickets, hotel reservations, guidance services on array of topics engulfing the every aspect of life.
Communities: Communities of all types have sprung up on the internet. Its a great way to meet up with people of similar interest and discuss common issues.
E-commerce: You can also shop online products. There are many online stores and sites that can be used to look for products as well as buy them using your credit card. You do not need to leave your house and can do all your shopping from the convenience of your home.
Entertainment: Internet provides facility to access wide range of Audio/Video songs, plays films. Many of which can be downloaded. One such popular website is YouTube.
Software Downloads: You can freely download innumerable, softwares like utilities, games, music, videos, movies, etc from the Internet.
Limitations of Internet
Theft of Personal information: Electronic messages sent over the Internet can be easily snooped and tracked, revealing who is talking to whom and what they are talking about. If you use the Internet, your personal information such as your name, address, credit card, bank details and other information can be accessed by unauthorized persons.
Internet addiction: There is some controversy over whether it is possible to actually be addicted to the Internet or not. Some researchers, claim that it is simply people trying to escape their problems in an online world.
Not Safe for Children: Children using the Internet has become a big concern. Most parents do not realize the dangers involved when their children log onto the Internet.
Virus threat: Today, not only are humans getting viruses, but computers are also. Computers are mainly getting these viruses from the Internet.
Spamming: It is often viewed as the act of sending unsolicited email. This multiple or vast emailing is often compared to mass junk mailings.