The Internet is a worldwide system that consists of a plethora of computer networks that are interconnected. The networks use the standard Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) to provide service to billions of users around the world. It consists of millions of public, private, business, academic, and government networks are connected by a wide range of electronic, wireless, and visual networking technologies. The Internet enables users to access a limitless range of information through electronic mail and the World Wide Web (WWW).
Communication
- Majority of traditional types of communication such as telephone, radio, television, and film have been redefined and reshaped by the Internet, giving way to new high-tech service such as IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Books, newspapers, and other print media are also incorporating aspects of the Internet, such as electronic versions and web feeds.
- The Internet has also promoted and enhanced new types of communication including Internet forums, instant messaging, and social networking.
- It has also led to individuals being able to complete a variety of daily tasks right from their computer such as shopping, finances, and daily schedules.
History
- The start of the Internet goes back to research in the 1960s that was authorized by the United States Government working with private commercial organizations to create computer networks that were strong and resistant to error.
- In the 1980s, the National Science Foundation provided funding for the new U.S. backbone network and private funding for other commercial backbone networks. This led to global participation in the building of new networking technology and the union of various existing networks.
- In the 1990s the commercialization of the international network greatly increased popularity and overtime the Internet was implemented into all aspects of modern life.
- As of the year 2009, an estimate of a quarter of the total population on Earth use Internet services.
Governance
The Internet has no centralized governance in access and usage policies or technological implementation. Every individual network establishes its own guidelines. Only the Domain Name System and Internet Protocol address space are managed by a maintainer organization, which is the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).