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Internet
The Internet is a global system that connects computers and devices worldwide, enabling
communication, information sharing, and access to digital services.
• Connects people and devices globally
• Enables communication, learning, and business
• Supports digital services and cloud platforms
• Operates using standard communication protocols
• Forms the backbone of modern digital life
History of the Internet
The Internet originated in the 1960s with the development of ARPANET (Advanced Research
Projects Agency Network). It was designed to allow multiple computers to communicate within a
single network an achievement that was revolutionary at the time.
ARPANET used packet switching, a method that breaks data into packets for efficient transmission.
In October 1969, the first message was successfully sent between two computers using ARPANET.
From that moment, internet technology continued to evolve rapidly.
How is the Internet Set Up?
The Internet relies on physical infrastructure such as:
• Optical fibre cables
• Copper wires
• Networking systems like LAN, WAN, and MAN
Mobile technologies like 2G, 3G, 4G,5G and Wi-Fi also depend on these physical cable networks to
function.
The organization ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), based in the
USA, manages essential Internet components such as IP addresses, the Domain Name System
(DNS), and global protocols to ensure smooth connectivity.
How Does the Internet Work?
The Internet operates using a client–server model:
• Client: A device such as a laptop or smartphone connected to the Internet
• Server: Powerful computers that store websites and data
Step-by-step working:
1. The client sends a request through a browser
2. The server identifies the website using its IP address
3. DNS converts the domain name into an IP address
