INTERNET Flashcards
- What is the Internet?
The Internet is a vast global network and a system architecture that connects billions of users worldwide. It’s a network of networks using the standard Internet protocol suite (TCP/IP) and has revolutionized global communications.
Who Invented the Internet?
The Internet originated from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). The forerunner was ARPANET, established in 1969 to link U.S. scientific and academic researchers. Notably, J.C.R. Licklider and Tim Berners-Lee played significant roles in its development.
History of the Internet: Key Milestones
he internet’s history includes significant milestones such as:
Launch of ARPA in 1958.
Formation of ARPANET in 1962 by J.C.R. Licklider.
Introduction of packet switching in 1965.
Formal launch as NSFNET in 1983-85.
Transition to commercial use in 1993, culminating in decommissioning by 1995.
Creation of HTTP by Tim Berners-Lee in 1995, standardizing access to internet sites.
Evolution and Growth of the Internet
ARPANET led to the Internet’s growth, transitioning to NSFNET by the early 1980s. Though ARPANET shut down in 1984, the Internet continued to expand, with an estimated 500 connected computers. Early internet usage was textual, requiring users to learn computer language commands, such as UNIX.
Requirements for Internet Connection
To connect to the Internet, various means exist:
Cable Connectivity: Uses cables for fast and reliable broadband internet.
Satellite Connectivity: Utilizes orbiting satellite dishes for broadband internet delivery.
Dial-up Connectivity: Offers slower, analog internet connection via landline phones.
Wireless/Fiber Connectivity: Modern wireless internet using wireless frequencies for delivery.
Birth of the Internet
The Internet emerged from a U.S. Department of Defense experiment in the 1960s, leading to the creation of ARPANET in 1969. It was established to link U.S. researchers and served as the prototype for the modern internet.
ARPANET’s Impact and Transition
ARPANET, the first multi-site computer network, contributed to the internet’s expansion. By 1984, even though ARPANET shut down, the usage of the Internet continued to grow. The network transitioned to the National Science Foundation, with an estimated 500 connected computers by that time.
Early Internet User Experience
During the early stages of the 1980s, the Internet was textual and monochromatic. Users had to employ computer language commands like UNIX. Accessing the Internet demanded certain computer skills, as it was entirely text-based and required command-based interactions.
Internet Connection Requirements
Essential requirements for an Internet connection involve different types of connectivity:
*Cable Connectivity: Using cables for fast and reliable broadband internet.
*Satellite Connectivity: Utilizing orbiting satellite dishes for broadband internet delivery.
*Dial-up Connectivity: Offering slower, analog internet connection via landline phones.
*Wireless/Fiber Connectivity: Modern wireless internet using wireless frequencies for delivery.
Evolution and Standardization of Internet Protocols
The Internet evolved through standardization efforts, including the introduction of the hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) by Tim Berners-Lee in 1995, enabling diverse computer platforms to access the same internet sites. This paved the way for the internet’s widespread adoption and expansion.
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
An ISP is essential for internet connection, providing access to the Internet. Communication with individuals having different ISPs does not require any additional payment. ISPs maintain extensive cabling, employ technicians, and manage services for numerous subscribers. In the 1990s, ISPs were categorized as dial-up services, high-speed (broadband), and DSL offered by phone companies.
Connection Devices for Internet Access
Devices like laptops, smartphones, desktops, watches, and tablets are fundamental for accessing the internet. A computer used for internet connection requires a robust system with a minimum 486 processor (16-bit), 128 MB RAM, and a 40 GB hard disk.
Hardware: Modem
Modems are crucial hardware for internet connections, facilitating the transmission of internet signals from telephone lines to computers. They convert analog signals from phone lines to digital computer signals. Various modem types exist, catering to different internet connections: telephone modem for dial-up, DSL modem for DSL, cable modem for cable, and satellite modem for satellite internet access.
Hardware: Router and Network Interface Card (NIC)
*Router: Enables multiple device connections to a single internet source, creating a Wi-Fi network. It helps in setting up wireless internet access without cables.
*Network Interface Card (NIC):
*Types: Internal NICs are inserted into motherboard slots and need network cables. External NICs, used for desktops or laptops without internal NICs, come in wireless or USB-based variants.
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
An ISP is crucial for internet connectivity, providing access to the global network. Users don’t incur extra charges while communicating with individuals using different ISPs. ISPs maintain extensive infrastructure, employ technicians, and cater to large subscriber bases. In the 1990s, ISPs included dial-up services, high-speed (broadband), and DSL offered by phone companies.
