What is the Internet?

The Internet is a massive global network of interconnected computer networks that enables information sharing and communication around the world. The word “Internet” itself is an abbreviation for “inter-national network.”

There is no central entity that controls the entire Internet. Instead, there are numerous Internet Service Providers (ISPs, or WISPs in the case of Wireless Internet Service Providers) that operate segments of the network and connect to each other to provide data transfer and Internet service access to their customers.

The Internet is based on a set of standardized communication protocols that define how data is transmitted, routed, and received between different devices. This decentralized and open infrastructure operates without a single point of control or ownership.

How does the Internet work?

The Internet works by using a series of protocols and technologies that allow data to be transferred between computers and devices connected to the network. The main protocol used is TCP/IP, which governs how data is broken into packets, routed, transmitted, and received over the network.

When you send a request or access a web page, the data is broken into packets that travel through a series of routers and intermediate servers, using IP addresses to route them correctly. This packet switching makes data transmission more reliable, efficient, and able to overcome any interruptions or slowdowns. Once the packets reach their final destination, they are reunited to display the web page or complete the requested operation.

Protocols such as HTTP, FTP, and SMTP govern specific types of data transfer such as web browsing, file transfers, and email.

How to connect to the Internet

To connect to the Internet and access all its services, you need an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISPs offer Internet connections using different access technologies, including:

• Cable connections
• DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) through the telephone line
• Fiber optic (FTTH)
• Copper mixed fiber (FTTC/FTTB/FTTN)
• Wireless connections such as Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology
• 3G/4G/5G mobile connections

The most modern technologies, such as fiber optics and FWA, allow very high connection speeds and reliable performance. Operators such as AntennADSL use the powerful FWA technology to bring ultra-broadband Internet connections even to the most remote areas and difficult to reach with traditional infrastructures.

Who invented the Internet?

No single person can be considered the inventor of the Internet. Rather, it is the result of many years of collaborative research and development by numerous scientists, engineers, and organizations.

The Internet’s origins date back to the 1960s, when the U.S. Department of Defense developed ARPANET, a computer network that used the concept of “packet switching” to share information securely. In 1990, Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web (WWW), which is what most people recognize as the Internet today, allowing people to navigate between different web pages via hyperlinks.

In 1992, a group of students at the University of Illinois developed the Mosaic browser, making web browsing more intuitive and accessible. That same year, the Internet also opened up to commercial purposes, leading to the creation of corporate websites and e-commerce platforms.

What is the Internet for?

The Internet has revolutionized virtually every aspect of our lives, offering countless advantages and opportunities:

• Communication: Allows you to communicate instantly with anyone in the world through email, instant messaging, voice, and video calls.
• Access to Information: The Internet is an inexhaustible source of information and knowledge, with online encyclopedias, blogs, streaming platforms, and websites on any subject.
• E-commerce: It offers the ability to purchase virtually any product or service online, creating a global marketplace accessible to all.
• Social Networking: Social media has revolutionized the way people connect, share experiences, and stay in touch.
• Technological innovation: The Internet of Things (IoT) enables the automation and optimization of numerous processes, from environmental monitoring to industrial production.
• Entertainment: Streaming platforms, online gaming, and other forms of digital entertainment are made possible by the Internet.
• Education and Learning: Online courses, educational resources, and distance learning opportunities are widely available on the Internet.
• Remote Work: The Internet has enabled telecommuting, smart working, and remote work opportunities for many professions.

The Internet has become an indispensable tool for productivity, connection, and progress in modern society. Thanks to providers like AntennADSL, even the most remote areas can benefit from a fast and reliable internet connection without a fixed line, reducing the digital divide.