Decoding the Internet
Understanding Basic Terms and Principles
Exploring the Internet with Ease
Accessing this web page is already proof that you know how to use the internet. The majority know how to use the internet without actually understanding how it works, similar to electricity, you use it every day but may not understand the mechanics behind it, Struggling to wrap your head around the electric principle? The Internet may seem even more daunting, but don’t worry! Allow me to simplify it for you in a few minutes, giving you the expertise and placing You among the top 10 percent of individuals who truly understand its operations.
The Internet: Beyond the Clouds
Contrary to popular belief, the Internet isn’t a nebulous cloud. It’s grounded in physical infrastructure and hardwares, primarily comprised of wires. Whether fiber optics, copper, or satellite beams, these wires form the backbone of the internet, facilitating global connectivity.
Servers and IP Addresses
Servers are specialized computers directly connected to the internet.
Each server has a unique identifier known as an Internet Protocol (IP) address, much like every house on your street has a unique number. These addresses, such as “192.168.0.9”, are assigned to every server connected to the internet. However, for easy identification, they are assigned domain names like wikipedia.com or facebook.com. This arrangement allows for smooth communication between computers.
Client and Server
Understanding the difference between servers and clients is crucial. Servers have a direct connection to the Internet, while clients (like our personal computers) connect to the internet through ISPs (Internet Service Providers), These ISPs are your internet provider you subscribed to eg MTN, Airtel, Spectranet,AT&T, Verizon e.t.c. This knowledge is key in explaining the process of data transmission.
Navigating the Web
Imagine visiting a website such as wikipedia.com on your home computer. Your internet service provider connects you to the website’s server to retrieve information. Likewise, sending emails includes transferring data packets between servers to deliver them to the right recipients.
Packet Transmission and Routing
The internet functions by breaking down information into packets for efficient transmission. These packets are equipped with routing details and are guided by routers spread throughout the network to ensure data is delivered promptly to its intended recipient
Securing Data Packets Transmission
With the vastness of the internet, keeping data safe is essential. IP addresses and routers are crucial for protecting information. They work by packaging data packets and guiding them through specific routes to prevent unauthorized access and maintain data integrity.
Conclusion
Breaking down the internet has given us the basic knowledge we need to navigate the digital world effectively. Understanding how it works allows us to take advantage of its countless possibilities and protect our online presence.
Image source: StandfordEdu
