The Internet or the Net is a global computer network that allows people to easily exchange information over short and long distances. The Internet is different from the Web, yet the Web is part of the Internet. The Net is made up of individual computer networks which share common network protocols in order to communicate with each other. Individual networks connect to each other using traditional telecommunication lines such as telephone lines, fiber optics, coaxial cable, satellites or other wireless networking solutionsDave's Beginners Guide to the Internet: What is the Internet?
Spidering Out
Although the technology began as a tool for isolated governmental and scientific facilities to share internal information,SearchAndGo.com: Internet Explained - The beginning (Part 1) the Internet has since evolved into a global public community. It is now a powerful platform for everything from entertainment and news, to business and advertising/marketing.
How It Works (The Short, Short Version)
Information is split into smaller pieces called packets. The size of these packets varies in size, and are pushed through routers, computers dedicated to directing packets of information.Discover: How Much Does The Internet Weigh? (June, 2007) The router network then directs packet data along the fastest path between the source and destination computer. Packets are reassembled at the destination into the original information.Dave's Beginners Guide to the Internet: What is the Internet?
Internet History Video
The Internet was conceived in 1957 and has gone through many transformations. Vice President Al Gore has claimed that he was instrumental in developing the Internet. As of 2010 North America has the most reliable connections in the world.
The Amazing Internet
The Internet has grown from the days of dial-up modems to high-speed systems that can transmit data in an instant. Phone lines are no longer necessary, as Internet can be installed through cable lines. The costs have stayed relatively the same, and one can even find free Internet (Wifi) in coffee stops and other stores.
References
Fast Facts
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All connected through traditional telecommunications lines
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Standardized use of the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) allows different computers to exchange usable data
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TCP/IP invented by Vint Cerf and Robert E. Khan
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North America currently has the most reliable Internet connections in the worldInternet Traffic Report: Network Overview
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Net Neutrality is a movement to keep internet traffic unregulated
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Internet Week NY
In the first week of June 2009 Internet Week was held as a popular event in New York City
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Google Introduces Goggles
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Google Chrome Launches Mac Version
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AOL
Regains Independence from Time Warner
