Internet
Introduction
The Internet is a global, publicly accessible network of interconnected computer systems. It functions as a "network of networks" comprising millions of smaller networks spanning domestic, academic, business, and governmental domains. Together, these networks facilitate the transmission of diverse information and services, including electronic mail, online chat, file transfer, and the interconnected web pages and resources of the World Wide Web (WWW).
This expansive network connects millions of computers worldwide, facilitating the exchange of data, news, and opinions across more than 1000 countries. Unlike centralized online services, the Internet operates in a decentralized manner by design. Each Internet-connected computer, known as a host, functions independently, allowing its operators to choose which Internet services to utilize and which local services to offer to the global Internet community.
1. Historical Background
In 1969, ARPA, a part of the Department of Defense (DOD), awarded a contract to the firm of Bolt Beranek and Newman (BBN) to construct a computer network. This network was intended to connect researchers at universities with defense contractors, scientists, and military personnel to facilitate the sharing of information and resources. It was named the ARPANET.
Between 1969 and 1983, the networks consisted of minicomputers, mainframes, and supercomputers. The ARPANET offered functionalities for transferring files, sending electronic mail, and managing mailing lists.
In 1973, the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) was renamed the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), and the network became known as the DARPANET. An important initiative for this renamed agency was the inception of the "interneting project" aimed at linking different networks together.
The primary objectives of the interneting project were the transition from circuit switching (ARPA) to packet switching networks (DARPA), interconnecting these packet switching networks, developing protocols and standards for the Internet, and exploring methods for routing traffic between networks.
Previous networking endeavors relied on circuit switching, which necessitated continuous connections between two computers to establish a network. This approach was analogous to having a railway track on which a single train could travel.
Packet switching systems, in contrast, enabled the creation of a data highway capable of handling large amounts of data, including voice, text, and video. Each data packet was equipped with a map and timestamp to ensure it reached the correct destination and to provide information about when the message was sent. At its destination, the message would be reassembled from the packet parts, allowing for readability by either machines or humans.
2. Advantages
E-mail: Email is now an essential communication tool. The E-mails are delivered instantly to people anywhere in the world, unlike traditional mail that takes a lot of time. E-mail is free, fast and very cheap when compared to telephone, fax and postal services.
24 hours a day - 7 days a week: Internet is available, 24x7 days for usage. Information: The primary advantage offered by the internet is its extensive availability of information. You can find information on almost any subject using search engines like Google or Yahoo.
Online Chat: ‘Chat room' are virtual spaces that can be used to connect people who share the same interests, build friendships, and stay in touch with old friends.
Services: Many services are provided on the internet such as job searching, purchasing tickets as well as hotel reservations.
Communities: online communities have emerged, offering a great way to connect with people of similar interest and discuss shared issues.
E-commerce: E-commerce revolutionized shopping. From your home, you can browse a vast selection of products, Using your credit card, you can browse, select, and purchase items without ever leaving your house. It is shopping at your fingertips!
Entertainment: Internet provides facility to access wide range of Audio/Video songs and films. Many of which can be downloaded. One such popular website is YouTube.
Software Downloads: we can freely download numerous softwares suxh as : utilities and games from the Internet.
3. Limitations
Theft of Personal information: Theft of personal information is a significant risk when using the internet. Electronic messages can be intercepted, revealing private conversations and details. Personal information, such as your name, address, credit card, and bank details, can be accessed by unauthorized individuals. When shopping online or using internet banking, there's a risk that your details could be stolen.
Negative effects on family communication: Increased time spent on the internet often leads to a decrease in communication and feeling of togetherness among the family members.
Internet addiction: The concept of internet addiction is a debated topic; Some researchers argue that what appears as addiction may be individuals seeking to escape their problems in an online world.
The use of the internet by children has become a significant concern, often overlooked by parents who may not fully grasp the potential dangers. When children engage in online interactions, they may unwittingly communicate with a harmful person.
Virus threat: The threat of computer viruses is a growing concern in today's digital age. Computers can easily acquire viruses, primarily from the internet, which disrupt their normal functioning. When connected to the internet, computers are particularly vulnerable to these attacks, potentially leading to the complete crash of the hard disk.
Spamming: commonly defined as the act of sending unsolicited emails. Spams consists of commercial advertisements, often promoting dubious products.
Remarque :
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