Internet

Definition

The internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate with each other using standardized protocols. It enables the exchange of information, resources, and services across vast distances, creating a digital space where individuals and organizations can share data, conduct transactions, and access a myriad of applications. The internet serves as the backbone for various online services and platforms, supporting both public access and private networks.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The internet was initially developed in the late 1960s as a military project known as ARPANET, designed for secure communication between research institutions.
2. It operates on a decentralized model, meaning there is no single governing body that controls the entire network, which enhances its resilience and accessibility.
3. The rise of broadband and mobile technologies has dramatically increased internet speeds and access, enabling more people worldwide to connect.
4. Protocols like TCP/IP are fundamental to how data is transmitted over the internet, ensuring reliable communication between devices.
5. The internet supports various services, including email, social media, streaming, and e-commerce, making it an integral part of modern life.

Review Questions

• How does the decentralized nature of the internet contribute to its resilience and accessibility?
  • The decentralized nature of the internet means that there is no single point of control or failure, which enhances its resilience against attacks or technical failures. This structure allows for a vast array of devices and networks to connect and communicate without being reliant on a central authority. As a result, even if one part of the network goes down, others can continue to function, maintaining overall accessibility for users worldwide.
• Evaluate the impact of broadband and mobile technologies on global internet access and user experience.
  • Broadband and mobile technologies have significantly transformed global internet access by providing faster speeds and more reliable connections. This has enabled millions of people in both urban and rural areas to go online, participate in e-commerce, access educational resources, and engage with social media. The increased connectivity has also facilitated economic growth in developing regions by opening new opportunities for entrepreneurship and remote work.
• Assess the role of the internet as an infrastructure for information systems in facilitating data exchange among organizations.
  • The internet serves as a crucial infrastructure for information systems by providing the necessary framework for data exchange among organizations. It allows businesses to share information seamlessly through applications like cloud computing, enabling real-time collaboration and decision-making across different locations. This interconnectedness fosters innovation and efficiency within organizations, streamlining processes such as supply chain management and customer relationship management while supporting the development of new digital services.

Related terms

World Wide Web: A system of interlinked hypertext documents and multimedia content accessed via the internet using web browsers.

IP Address:

A unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.

Cloud Computing:

The delivery of computing services over the internet, allowing users to access and store data and applications on remote servers.