Chapter Five

Introduction to Internet

5.1 What Is Internet?

The word "Internet" is derived from two words: INTERnational NETwork, signifying that the
Internet is an international network of computers. It serves as a vast fountain of knowledge,
accessible by anyone with a computer and a telephone line. The Internet is a computer-based global
information system, and it is often described as a network of networks, composed of numerous
interconnected computers and computer networks. Each network can link tens, hundreds, or even
thousands of computers. The Internet has revolutionized communication, making it possible for
people around the world to connect with each other efficiently and inexpensively.

5.1.1. Internet History

In 1969, before internet was created, the US Defense Advanced Research Project agency
(DARPA) started a project for networking capabilities between different centers of their Defense
Departments. And they ended up with three facilities:-

 Remote login
 File transfer and
 Remote printing
This was based on packet switched network. At that time, they have developed several different
kinds of communication networks including a network known as ARPANET. This network was
built to serve only two purposes academic and military uses, i.e.

 To share information among military, and university sources.

 To provide a diversified system for sustaining communication among military
units in the event of nuclear attack.
So, the uses of these networks were restricted to military personnel and researchers who developed
the technology. Many people regard the ARPANET as the forerunner (precursor) of the internet.
From 1970s until 1980s the internet was a US government funded communication and research
tool which was restricted exclusively to academic and military uses. It was administered by an
organization called National Science Foundation (NSF).

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In some of the universities, only a handful (small number) of researchers working on internet
research had access. Then in the late 1980s the NSF developed a policy that relaxed the restriction
of internet and allowed faculty at universities to use internet for research and scholarship
(academic) activities but still NSF policy prohibited all commercial use of internet.

Next the major event in the evolution of the internet occurred in 1983, ARPANET changed over to
the TCP/IP protocol that govern how different networks communicate. Years back there were
difference networks, but connecting each of these independent networks was difficult. This was
because they were not using the same protocol and therefore couldn’t exchange information. As a
result, ARPA helped (contributed) to the development of new protocol suit called TCP/IP that would
allow different networks to connect and communicate around mid 70’s. so most other networks had
changed to TCP/IP in the late 1970s, but ARPANET didn’t make the change until January 1, 1983.
Thus, many people consider that date as the birthday of the internet. By the late 1995, however, the
NSF ceased its administration of the internet. The internet was privatized and commercial use of
internet was permitted.

5.1.2. Who owns (runs) the internet?

Nobody owns the internet; there is no single authority that controls it. Unlike radio or television,
the internet does not rely on a centralized distribution system. Instead, it is a decentralized network
where individuals with internet access can directly communicate with others, share information,
access resources, or even conduct business with minimal cost. Each network connected to the
internet is responsible for managing its own part, making the internet a truly collaborative and
distributed system.

5.1.3. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Internet

The internet is a vast collection of services and resources that has revolutionized how people
communicate, access information, and conduct business. While many consider email and the
World Wide Web its principal components, the internet offers far more, including chat rooms,
social networking, e-commerce, and various online services. It has effectively brought the world
into a single room, enabling global communication, information sharing, and entertainment at our
fingertips. However, like every technological innovation, the internet has its own advantages and
disadvantages.

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Advantages of Internet
Faster Communication
 The internet’s primary goal has always been to enable speedy communication, far
exceeding expectations. With tools like email, chat services, and video conferencing, you
can connect instantly with someone across the globe. These innovations foster global
friendships and cultural exchange.
Information Resources
 The internet is an unparalleled repository of information. It provides access to resources on
virtually any subject, from government policies and market trends to technical support and
research. Search engines like Google and Yahoo make it easy to find this information.
 Students and researchers benefit immensely, as assignments and research projects
increasingly require online resources. Teachers also leverage the internet for educational
purposes. For example, websites like America's Doctor even allow users to consult with
doctors online.

Entertainment
 The internet is a hub for entertainment. People download games, visit celebrity websites,
and engage with the online gaming industry. Even celebrities use the internet for
promotions. Many games and content are available for free, making it an appealing source
of entertainment.

Social Networking
 Social platforms like Facebook and Twitter have revolutionized how people connect. These
networks allow individuals to reconnect with old friends, find job opportunities, and
engage with like-minded communities. Chat rooms and dating platforms even help people
find life partners.

Online Services
 The internet simplifies daily tasks through online services. You can book tickets, transfer
funds, pay bills, or plan travel itineraries without leaving home. Websites streamline
services such as airline ticketing and hotel reservations, making life more convenient.

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E-commerce
 E-commerce enables global commercial transactions, offering everything from shopping
to business deals. Platforms like eBay allow users to bid for homes, buy or sell products,
and even auction items online. This phenomenon has revolutionized consumer
convenience.

Disadvantages of Internet
Theft of Personal Information
 Online activities like banking and social networking can expose personal information (e.g.,
name, address, credit card details) to potential theft. Hackers or malicious software can
misuse this information, leading to serious consequences.

Spamming
 Spamming involves sending unsolicited bulk emails, which disrupt systems and slow down
internet services. It can be a significant nuisance for users.

Virus Threats
 Computers connected to the internet are vulnerable to virus attacks. These viruses often
come disguised as harmless links or attachments and can crash systems, causing data loss
and disruptions.

Pornography
 Unrestricted access to pornography is a significant concern. Such content can have harmful
effects on children, teenagers, and even adults, potentially damaging social and marital
relationships.

Social Disconnect
 Despite fostering online connections, the internet can create a disconnect in real-life
relationships. Many people, including children, spend excessive time in the virtual world,
neglecting social interactions and outdoor activities. This can negatively impact social and
emotional development.

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 5.2 What is an Internet Address?

An Internet address is a unique identifier for a computer or device connected to the internet. It
ensures that data sent across the internet reaches the correct destination. Every device connected
to the internet is assigned a specific Internet address.

An Internet address can also refer to the name or unique web address of a website, commonly
known as a Uniform Resource Locator (URL). For example:

 A numerical Internet address (IP address): 168.119.955.2

 A URL: www.example.com

These addresses are essential for locating and accessing websites or online resources across the
internet.

5.3 Services of the Internet

The internet offers a variety of services that allow users to communicate, access information, share
resources, and conduct business seamlessly. Some of the basic facilities or services available over
the internet are described below:

5.3.1. E-Mail (Electronic Mail)

E-mail or Electronic mail is a paperless method of sending messages, notes or letters from one
person to another or even many people at the same time via the Internet. E-mail is very fast
compared to the normal post. E-mail messages usually take only few seconds to arrive at their
destination. One can send messages anytime of the day or night and it will get delivered
immediately. You need not to wait for the post office to open and you don’t have to get worried
about holidays. It works 24 hours a day, seven days a week. What’s more, the copy of the message
you have sent will be available whenever you want to look at it - even in the middle of the night.
You have the privilege of sending something extra even such as a file, graphics, images etc. along
with your e-mail. The biggest advantage to using e-mail is that it is cheap, especially when sending
messages to other states or countries and at the same time it can be delivered to a number of people
around the world. Although e-mail is faster and cheaper, it has many of the components of regular

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mail. It allows you to compose note, get the address of the recipient and send it. Once the mail is
received and read, it can be forwarded, replied. One can even store it for later use, or delete.

Features of E-mail:

 One-to-one or one-to-many communications

 Easy and fast to use and access
 Physical presence of recipient is not required
 Most inexpensive mail service, 24-hours a day and seven days a week
 Encourages informal communication and it is available world wide

Components of an E-mail Address

An email address is structured into three main components: the username, the "@" symbol, and
the domain name. The username represents the individual or entity using the email and appears
before the "@" symbol. For example, in the email [email protected], "fikir" is the username. The
"@" symbol serves as a separator between the username and the domain. The domain name
identifies the email service provider, and it consists of two parts: the host name, which refers to
the provider (like "gmail"), and the Top-Level Domain (TLD), which specifies the type or origin
of the domain, such as .com, .org, or .edu. In [email protected], "gmail" is the host name, and
".com" is the TLD. This structure ensures proper identification and routing of emails across
networks.

Advantages of Email.
Speed and Efficiency:
 Emails are delivered instantly across the globe, which makes them an ideal method for
rapid communication. This is especially beneficial in a business setting where quick
responses are crucial, enabling decisions to be made faster.
Low Cost:
 One of the most significant benefits of email is its low cost. Sending an email doesn't
require any postage fees or expensive phone calls, especially for long-distance

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 communication. This makes it highly economical for both individuals and businesses,
particularly when communicating with people in different countries.

Record Keeping and Documentation:

 Emails can be stored indefinitely, creating a reliable record of communication. In the case
of important business decisions, agreements, or project updates, emails can serve as a
written record for future reference, ensuring that critical information is never lost.
Additionally, this archiving makes it easier to retrieve past communication when needed.
Accessibility and Flexibility:
 Emails can be accessed from any internet-connected device—whether it be a computer,
smartphone, or tablet—allowing users to stay connected and productive no matter their
location. This makes emails highly flexible and useful for remote working, business travel,
or when out of the office.
Convenience:
 One of the major advantages of email is the ability to send messages at any time of day,
regardless of working hours. This is especially helpful for individuals in different time
zones or for people who need to communicate outside regular office hours. Additionally,
recipients can choose when to respond, which makes the process less disruptive than other
forms of communication like phone calls.
Attachment Support:
 Email allows users to send attachments such as documents, spreadsheets, images,
presentations, or videos. This enables people to share detailed information and collaborate
on projects easily, eliminating the need for physical meetings or mailed packages.
Environmental Benefits:
 Emails are paperless, which significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with
paper-based communication. In the context of businesses aiming to improve sustainability,
email communication contributes to reducing paper waste and conserving resources.

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Disadvantages of Email
Spam and Unwanted Emails:
 A major disadvantage of email is the constant threat of spam, which includes unwanted
promotional messages or fraudulent schemes. Spam emails can clog inboxes, requiring
users to spend time filtering and deleting unnecessary content. In extreme cases, spam can
overwhelm inboxes, causing users to miss important emails.
Security Risks:
 Email is vulnerable to security threats such as hacking, phishing, malware, and viruses.
Malicious actors can intercept or manipulate email messages, gaining access to sensitive
data. For businesses, this is a particularly serious issue as it can result in data breaches or
financial loss. Even with encryption, some forms of email security can be bypassed, and
users are often tricked into opening harmful attachments or links.
Miscommunication:
 Unlike face-to-face or phone conversations, emails lack non-verbal cues, body language,
and tone of voice, which are crucial for fully understanding a message. Without these
elements, recipients might misinterpret the sender's intent, tone, or urgency, leading to
misunderstandings. For example, a message that is intended to be casual or humorous
might be perceived as rude or cold by the recipient.
Information Overload:
 As emails are an efficient and easy way to communicate, it’s common for individuals,
especially professionals, to receive a high volume of messages daily. The constant flow of
emails can overwhelm the recipient, making it harder to prioritize or focus on the most
important messages. In some cases, users may miss critical communications buried under
a sea of less important ones.
Depersonalization of Communication:
 Emails can come across as impersonal, as they lack the warmth and emotional connection
that in-person or phone conversations offer. This can make building relationships or
creating strong interpersonal connections more challenging. In some professional settings,
the absence of face-to-face interaction may even lead to a decline in overall morale or
engagement, especially in teams that rely solely on digital communication.

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Dependence on Internet Access:
 Email is entirely dependent on internet connectivity, meaning that users without internet
access cannot send or receive emails. In remote or rural areas with poor network
infrastructure, this can create significant barriers to communication, reducing email's
effectiveness in such regions.
Lack of Immediate Feedback:
 Unlike instant messaging or phone calls, emails do not provide immediate feedback. This
can slow down communication in time-sensitive situations, as the sender may have to wait
several hours or even days for a response. This delay can be problematic when quick
decisions or actions are required, especially in urgent business situations.
Difficulty in Managing Attachments:
 While email supports attachments, large files may be difficult to send due to size
limitations, especially when they exceed the maximum file size allowed by email servers.
Additionally, recipients might have trouble opening certain file types if they don't have the
necessary software. There is also the potential for accidental attachments or missing files,
which can lead to confusion.

5.3.2. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

 FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a widely used internet service that enables the efficient
transfer of files between computers over a network. It allows users to upload, download,
and manage files remotely, making it essential for website management, software
distribution, and file backups. FTP supports both active and passive modes for transferring
data, and secure versions like FTPS and SFTP offer encryption for safer transfers. It is
compatible across different operating systems, provides the ability to handle large files
without size restrictions, and is cost-effective and user-friendly. FTP remains a crucial tool
for businesses, developers, and individuals needing reliable, fast, and scalable file transfer
solutions.

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5.3.3. WORLD WIDE WEB (WWW)

 The World Wide Web (WWW) is a vast collection of interconnected documents and
resources that are accessed via the internet using web browsers. It was created in 1989 by
Tim Berners-Lee and has since become the primary platform for accessing and sharing
information globally. The WWW operates through the use of web pages, which are
typically written in HTML (HyperText Markup Language), and are linked together using
hyperlinks. These pages can include text, images, videos, and interactive elements. The
WWW is hosted on web servers, and users access it by entering web addresses (URLs) in
their browsers. It provides a wide array of services, including websites, social media
platforms, e-commerce, search engines, and much more, making it an essential tool for
communication, entertainment, learning, and business. The World Wide Web has
revolutionized the way we connect, share, and access information, contributing to the
digital transformation of nearly every industry and aspect of life.

5.3.4. Web Conferencing / Video Conferencing

 Web conferencing and video conferencing are internet-based technologies that enable real-
time communication and collaboration among individuals or groups, regardless of location.
These services provide features like live audio and video communication through webcams
and microphones, screen sharing for presentations and demonstrations, and file sharing to
exchange documents and other digital content. Additional tools such as chat functionality,
recording options, and virtual whiteboards enhance interactivity and usability. Popular
platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Cisco Webex make it easier for
businesses, educators, healthcare professionals, and individuals to stay connected. Web
conferencing offers numerous advantages, including cost savings by eliminating the need
for travel, global accessibility, scalability to accommodate varying group sizes, and
improved productivity through streamlined collaboration. However, challenges such as
dependency on stable internet connections, potential technical issues, privacy and security
risks, and a learning curve for some platforms can arise. Overall, these technologies have
revolutionized communication and collaboration in business, education, healthcare, and
social interactions, making them integral in today’s digital landscape.
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 5.3.5. Electronic Commerce

 Electronic commerce, or e-commerce, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services
over the internet. It encompasses a wide range of business activities conducted online,
including retail shopping, online banking, ticket booking, and digital downloads. E-
commerce platforms enable businesses and consumers to engage in transactions through
websites or mobile applications, providing convenience and accessibility.
Key components of e-commerce include secure payment gateways for processing
transactions, user-friendly interfaces for browsing and purchasing, and logistics systems for
order fulfillment and delivery. There are various types of e-commerce, such as Business-to-
Consumer (B2C), where businesses sell directly to customers; Business-to-Business (B2B),
involving transactions between companies; Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C), such as online
marketplaces; and Consumer-to-Business (C2B), where individuals offer products or
services to businesses.
The advantages of e-commerce include 24/7 availability, a broader reach beyond physical
store locations, reduced operational costs, and personalized shopping experiences through
data analytics. However, challenges like cyber security risks, competition, logistical
complexities, and the need for reliable internet access persist. E-commerce has transformed
traditional commerce, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency, and continues to
grow as technology advances.

5.4 Types of Web Sites

A website is a collection of interconnected web pages hosted on a web server and accessed via the
internet. Websites serve as a platform for sharing information, conducting business,
communicating with audiences, or providing entertainment. They are built using technologies like
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and are accessed through browsers using URLs.

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There are many types of websites, and some of the most common ones include the following:

Personal websites are designed to share an individual’s interests, hobbies, or experiences, often
serving as a platform for self-expression or personal branding. Examples include blogs, online
portfolios, or autobiographical sites. These websites typically feature personal stories, photos,
journals, or creative works, presented in a minimalistic design that highlights the individual’s
unique personality or skills.

Business websites are designed to represent companies or organizations online, providing

essential information such as details about the company, its services, products, and contact options.
Examples include corporate sites and small business websites, which often feature a professional
design aligned with the company’s branding. Many also include a blog or news section to share
updates.

E-commerce websites, on the other hand, focus on facilitating online buying and selling.
Examples such as Amazon, eBay, and Shopify stores feature product catalogs with detailed
descriptions, images, and prices, along with secure payment gateways, shopping cart functionality,
and customer account management for order tracking.

Educational websites aim to provide learning resources, courses, or tutorials, with examples like
Coursera and Khan Academy. These platforms often include study materials, videos, interactive
quizzes, user profiles for tracking progress, and certification options for completed courses.

News websites, such as BBC, CNN, and Reuters, are designed to deliver timely news articles,
updates, and multimedia content. They typically feature categorized news sections (e.g., Politics,
Sports, Technology), multimedia elements like videos and podcasts, and real-time updates for
breaking news.

Social media websites, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, focus on social networking
and content sharing. These platforms are characterized by user-generated content, profiles, and
timelines, along with tools for sharing, liking, commenting, and messaging. They also provide
community-building features such as groups or hashtags to foster interaction and engagement.

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Entertainment websites are designed to provide users with enjoyable content, such as streaming
media, games, or interactive experiences. Popular examples include Netflix, YouTube, and various
gaming sites. These platforms often feature services for streaming videos or music, offering vast
libraries of content for on-demand consumption. They may also include online games or
interactive media experiences to keep users entertained. User engagement is a key focus, with
features like likes, shares, comments, and personalized recommendations enhancing interaction
and user satisfaction.

Government websites serve the purpose of providing official information and services to the
public. Examples include sites like IRS.gov and USA.gov, which offer a variety of resources for
citizens. These websites typically feature public service announcements, important updates, and
access to government resources such as forms, guidelines, and regulations. Many government sites
also include online service portals that allow users to perform tasks like tax filing, applying for
permits, or requesting public records. An essential feature of government websites is their
accessible design, ensuring that all citizens, including those with disabilities, can easily navigate
and use the services offered.

Nonprofit websites are created to represent charities or nonprofit organizations, offering a

platform for raising awareness and encouraging support. Examples include websites like the Red
Cross and UNICEF. These sites typically feature information about the organization’s mission,
impact, and ongoing projects, along with opportunities for users to contribute. They often include
donation options and volunteer sign-up forms, as well as stories or testimonials that inspire visitors
to take action.

Search engines and portals, such as Google, Yahoo, and Bing, serve the purpose of helping users
search for information or aggregate web content. These websites primarily feature powerful search
functionality with advanced filters that allow users to narrow down results. They often provide
links to various web resources or related services, guiding users to find the most relevant
information based on their search queries.

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 5.5 The key Differences of Internet, Intranet and Extranet

The Internet, Intranet, and Extranet are all types of networks, but they differ in terms of their
scope, accessibility, and intended purpose. Here's a detailed explanation of each:

 Internet

The Internet is a global network that connects millions of computers and devices worldwide,
making it publicly accessible to anyone with the necessary hardware, such as a computer or
smartphone, and an Internet connection. It offers a wide range of services, including browsing
websites, sending emails, streaming media, and online shopping, among many others. As a
platform for global communication, information sharing, and entertainment, the Internet plays a
crucial role in modern life. Its accessibility is universal, available to anyone with a connection,
while its scope is global, spanning the entire world. The primary purpose of the Internet is to
facilitate global communication, provide access to vast amounts of information, and enable online
services.

 Intranet

An Intranet is a private network designed for use within a specific organization or group, such as
companies, universities, or other institutions. It is utilized to share information, resources, and
services among authorized users, facilitating efficient collaboration and communication. While
similar to the Internet, the Intranet is closed off from public access, ensuring privacy and security.
It often includes internal websites, applications, and tools for document sharing, project
management, and organizational communication. Its accessibility is limited to authorized users,
such as employees or members, and its scope is restricted to the boundaries of the organization.
The primary purpose of an Intranet is to enhance internal communication, promote collaboration,
and streamline resource sharing within the organization.

 Extranet

An Extranet is a semi-private network designed to grant external users, such as business partners,
clients, or suppliers, controlled access to specific resources or information within an organization's
Intranet. While maintaining robust security and privacy measures, the Extranet extends certain

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portions of the Intranet to authorized external entities. It serves as a platform for secure
collaboration, enabling the organization to share documents, applications, or services with its
external stakeholders. The accessibility of an Extranet is private but open to authorized external
users, bridging the gap between the Intranet and the Internet. Its primary purpose is to facilitate
secure communication and collaboration with external partners, clients, and stakeholders while
maintaining control over shared resources.

Key Differences

 Internet is public and global, Intranet is private and internal, and Extranet is semi-
private, allowing limited access to outsiders.
 Intranet is used for internal communication and resource sharing, while Extranet
facilitates secure communication with external users.
 The Internet connects the world, whereas both Intranet and Extranet serve specific
organizational purposes with varying levels of access.

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