BS ENGLISH: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING APPLICATION

SOCIAL NETWORKING
DEFINITION:
Social networking refers to the use of internet-based platforms that
enable individuals and groups to connect, interact, and share content with each
other. These platforms allow users to create and maintain online profiles, build
networks of contacts, and communicate with others in various ways, such as
messaging, sharing posts, and commenting on content.
BRIEF HISTORY:
The concept of social networking dates back to the early days of the
internet, with the first social networking site called Six Degrees launched in
1997. However, it wasn't until the early 2000s that social networking started to
gain widespread popularity with the launch of sites like Friendster, My Space,
and Facebook. Since then, social networking has evolved and expanded, with
the rise of other popular platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
IMPORTANCE NOWADAYS:
Social networking has become an integral part of modern-day
communication and interaction. It allows people from all over the world to
connect with each other, build relationships, and share information and ideas.
Social networking has also become an important tool for businesses and
organizations to connect with their audiences, market their products and
services, and build brand awareness.
ADVANTAGES OF SOCIAL NETWORKING:
1. Increased communication and connectivity: Social networking platforms
allow people to connect with others and communicate easily, regardless
of geographic location. This can be especially helpful for people who have
family or friends in different parts of the world, or for people who want to
network with others in their industry.
2. Building and maintaining relationships: Social networking enables people
to build and maintain relationships with others, including friends, family
members, and professional contacts. This can be done by sharing
updates, messaging, or commenting on posts.
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3. Information sharing: Social networking platforms allow people to share
information and content with others, including news, articles, photos, and
videos. This can be helpful for people who want to keep up with current
events or share information with their network.
4. Business and marketing opportunities: Social networking provides
businesses and organizations with an opportunity to reach out to their
audiences, market their products and services, and build brand
awareness. Social media can be a very cost-effective way for businesses
to market their products.
DISADVANTAGES OF SOCIAL NETWORKING:
1. Privacy and security concerns: Social networking platforms can put
personal information at risk. Users may not realize that their personal
information is being collected and used by third parties.
2. Cyberbullying and harassment: Social networking can be a breeding
ground for cyberbullying and harassment, which can have negative effects
on users' mental health and well-being. This can also be a problem for
children and young people who use social media.
3. Addiction and wasting time: Social networking can be addictive, and users
may spend excessive amounts of time on these platforms. This can
interfere with other important aspects of their lives, such as work, school,
or personal relationships.
4. Misinformation and fake news: Social networking can be a source of
misinformation and fake news, which can have negative effects on public
opinion and decision-making. This can be especially problematic during
times of crisis, such as a pandemic or a natural disaster.
SOCIAL NETWORKING TOOLS:
Some of the most common tools of social networking are the following:
1. Social media platforms: These are online platforms where people can
create profiles, share information, connect with other users, and engage
with their content. Examples of social media platforms include Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, etc; where people can connect with friends and family,
share pictures and videos, and comment on each other's posts.
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2. Blogs: Blogs are websites where people can share their thoughts and ideas
with others. Blogs can be used for personal, professional, or educational
purposes. For example, WordPress is a popular blogging platform where
users can create and publish their own content. Blogger is another
blogging platform that allows users to create and share their thoughts with
a wider audience.
3. Forums: Forums are online discussion platforms where users can post
messages, engage in conversations and share their knowledge on a
specific topic. For example, Reddit is a popular forum where users can
discuss a wide range of topics and share their opinions with others. Quora
is another forum where users can ask questions and receive answers from
a community of experts.
4. Instant messaging: Instant messaging is a tool that allows users to send
real-time messages to each other. Instant messaging can be used for
personal or professional purposes. WhatsApp is a popular instant
messaging app that allows users to send text messages, make voice and
video calls, and share multimedia content. Facebook Messenger is another
instant messaging app that allows users to connect with their Facebook
friends and share messages, photos and videos.
5. Video conferencing: Video conferencing is a tool that allows users to have
real-time video communication with each other. Video conferencing can
be used for business meetings, virtual events, or personal communication.
Zoom is a popular video conferencing tool that allows users to host virtual
meetings, webinars and conferences. Skype is another video conferencing
tool that allows users to make video and voice calls, share screens and
send instant messages.
6. Wikis: Wikis are online platforms that allow users to collaboratively create,
edit and share content. Wikipedia is a popular wiki that allows users to
contribute information on a wide range of topics. ‘TiddlyWiki’ is another
wiki platform that allows users to create and share their own wikis on any
topic.
7. Podcasts: Podcasts are digital audio files that can be downloaded or
streamed online. Podcasts can be used for entertainment, education, or
marketing purposes. The Joe Rogan Experience is a popular podcast where
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Joe Rogan interviews celebrities and experts on a wide range of topics.
TED Talks is another podcast where experts share their ideas on a wide
range of topics.

Overall, social networking has greatly impacted the way we connect