Internet

Also known as the net or the web, theInternet was initially developed by the IPTOwith the intention of helping to develop the progress of computing technology by linking the work being done by all the best academic computer centers. The Internet as we know it today first started being developed in the late 1960's and transmitted its first message on Friday, October 29, 1969. In 1993 the Internet experienced one of its largest growths to date and today is accessible and used by people everywhere in the world. The Internet utilizes the TCP/IP protocol and is accessed using a computer modem or network that is connected through an ISP. See document CH001016 for additional information about the people behind creating the Internet.

The Internet contains billions of web pages created by people and companies from around the world, making it a limitless location to locate information and entertainment. It is also full of numerous services that help make life more convenient. For example, many financial institutions offer online banking that enables a user to easily manage their account online.

General information about the Internet:

· The Internet is explored, aka surfed, using a computer browser.

· Finding information on the Internet is achieved by using a search engine.

· Users browse web pages by followinghyperlinks.

· Besides browsing web pages, the Internet is also a popular method of communicating with others through onlineweb forums, chat rooms, e-mails, and instant messages. In addition to communicating, users also use the Internet to share files, pictures, songs, and video over the Internet.

Computer Hope ran a poll in the past asking its users how they used the Internet. Below are the results of that poll and a general idea of what people do on the Internet.

Chat 6.18%
E-mail 17.91%
Research 48.83%
Downloads 16.84%
Other 10.23%