5. Internet & Social Media
5.1 Internet Basics
Welcome to the Internet & Social Media module! In this section, we'll explore how the internet works and its impact on modern communication.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of how the internet works
- Learn about different types of internet connections
- Explore the evolution of the World Wide Web
5.1.1 How the Internet Works
What is the Internet?
The internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate using standardized protocols. It allows for the exchange of information and services across the world.
Key Components
- Servers: Powerful computers that store and deliver web content
- Routers: Direct internet traffic between networks
- ISP (Internet Service Provider): Companies that provide internet access
- Protocols: Rules that govern data transmission (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, etc.)
Data Transmission
When you access a website, your request is broken into packets that travel through multiple networks before reaching their destination. The packets may take different routes but are reassembled at the destination.
Internet vs. World Wide Web
Internet: The physical network of computers and cables
World Wide Web: A service that runs on the internet, consisting of interconnected documents and resources
5.1.2 Types of Internet Connections
| Type | Speed | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dial-up | Up to 56 Kbps | Uses telephone lines, slowest connection type |
| DSL | 1-100 Mbps | Uses telephone lines but faster than dial-up |
| Cable | 10-500 Mbps | Uses cable TV infrastructure |
| Fiber Optic | 250-1000+ Mbps | Uses light to transmit data, fastest option |
| Satellite | 12-100 Mbps | Good for remote areas, higher latency |
| 5G Mobile | 50-1000+ Mbps | Wireless cellular network, high speed and low latency |
5.1.3 Evolution of the Web
Web 1.0 (1990s)
Read-Only Web
Static websites, limited user interaction, mostly text-based content
Web 2.0 (2000s)
Read-Write Web
User-generated content, social media, web applications, rich internet applications
Web 3.0 (Emerging)
Semantic Web
AI-powered, decentralized, blockchain technology, IoT integration
Real World Impact
The evolution of the web has transformed how we live, work, and communicate. From simple text-based websites in the 1990s to today's dynamic, interactive platforms, the internet has become an essential part of daily life. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, which emerged during the Web 2.0 era, have changed how we connect with others and consume information.
Knowledge Check
Test your understanding of internet and social media concepts with these multiple-choice questions.