Introduction to the Internet
The Internet is an increasingly important part of everyday life for people around the world. But if you've never used the Internet before, all of this new information might feel a bit confusing at first.
The Internet is a global network of billions of computers and other electronic devices. With the Internet, it's possible to access almost any information, communicate with anyone else in the world, and do much more. You can do all of this by connecting a computer to the Internet, which is also called going online.
What is the Web?
The World Wide Web—usually called the Web for short—is a collection of different websites you can access through the Internet. A website is made up of related text, images, and other resources. Websites can resemble other forms of media—like newspaper articles or television programs—or they can be interactive in a way that's unique to computers.
Once you are connected to the Internet, you can access and view websites using a type of application called a web browser. Just keep in mind that the web browser itself is not the Internet; it only displays websites that are stored on the Internet.
How does the Internet work?
At this point you may be wondering, how does the Internet work? It's important to realize that the Internet is a global network of physical cables, which can include copper telephone wires, TV cables, and fiber optic cables. Even wireless connections like Wi-Fi and 3G/4G rely on these physical cables to access the Internet.
When you visit a website, your computer sends a request over these wires to a server. A server is where websites are stored, and it works a lot like your computer's hard drive. Once the request arrives, the server retrieves the website and sends the correct data back to your computer. Amazing, this all happens in just a few seconds!
Other things you can do on the Internet
One of the best features of the Internet is the ability to communicate almost instantly with anyone in the world. Email is one of the oldest and most universal ways to share information, used by billions of people. Social media allows people to connect in a variety of ways and build communities online.
There are many other things you can do online. You can keep up with news, shop for anything, pay your bills, manage your bank accounts, meet new people, watch TV, or learn new skills. You can learn or do almost anything online.
5 FAQs about the Internet
What is the difference between the Internet and the Web?
The Internet is the global network of physical cables and computers. The Web is the collection of websites you access using that network.
Do I need a browser to use the Internet?
Yes, if you want to view websites. Browsers like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox display the content stored on the Internet.
Does Wi-Fi use cables?
Yes. While your device connects wirelessly to a router, that router is connected to a physical network of cables that span the globe.
What is a server?
A server is a powerful computer where websites are stored. When you visit a site, the server "serves" the data to your computer.
Is the Internet safe for shopping and banking?
Yes, provided you use secure websites (look for HTTPS and the padlock icon) and keep your personal information private.
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