The Internet Unwrapped
Whenever I try to understand how something works, I tend to translate everything to my “career language” because it is easier for me to get familiar with the terms and picture everything in my mind. That’s why we will dive into How The Internet Works — With a Marketing Specialist.
How does the Internet Work?
Picture the Internet as a colossal marketplace where businesses set up shop and customers explore the latest products and services. In this virtual bazaar:
- Servers are Clients:
Imagine servers as showcase booths loaded with products and clients as eager shoppers seeking information and experiences.
Businesses (servers) are constantly vying for attention, trying to attract customers to their offerings
2. Data Transmission:
When a customer makes a purchase (requests information), the product details are packaged into parcels (data packets).
These parcels zip through the market lines, ensuring a swift delivery of information.
3. IP Addresses:
Each business booth has a unique address (IP address), making it easy for customers to locate their favorite stalls in the bustling market
4. DNS (Domain Name System)
Just like storefront signs with catchy names, the market has a guide (DNS) that translates business names (domain names) into specific booth locations.
Characteristics of the Internet and its purpose
- Decentralization
Decentralization refers to the distribution of computing tasks across multiple nodes rather than relying on a central point. If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that the market is designed so that if one area undergoes renovations, the shopping experience can continue seamlessly elsewhere, preventing disruptions.
2. Scalability
Scalability is the capacity of a system to handle a growing number of elements, such as users, data, or transactions, without compromising performance. If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that as more customers pour into the market, it expands to accommodate the growing crowd and ensure businesses can showcase their products effectively.
3. Interconnected Networks
Interconnected networks involve the linking of multiple networks to enable seamless communication and data exchange. If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that special pathways (networks) connect different sections of the market, fostering collaboration between businesses and enhancing the overall shopping experience.
4. Open Standards
Open standards refer to publicly available specifications that establish a common framework for interoperability. If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that businesses agree on certain standards (rules of engagement) to ensure a harmonious and cooperative, promoting fair competition.
5. Accessibility
Accessibility in the context of the Internet denotes the design and implementation of systems and services that can be easily accessed and used by individuals with diverse abilities and from various geographical locations. If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that the market is open to all, allowing businesses to reach a global audience and ensuring customers can explore a diverse array of offerings.
HTTP AND HTTPS
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol):
HTTP is an application layer protocol used for transmitting hypermedia documents, such as HTML. It operates over the TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and facilitates communication between clients and servers. HTTP is stateless, meaning each request from a client to a server is independent, and the server doesn’t retain information about previous requests.
If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that HTTP is akin to the language marketers use to communicate with their audience. It’s the channel through which businesses share compelling stories, product details, and enticing visuals.
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure):
HTTPS is an extension of HTTP designed to enhance the security of data transmission. It incorporates the SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or its successor, TLS (Transport Layer Security), protocols to encrypt data between clients and servers. This encryption ensures that the information, including sensitive data such as login credentials or financial details, remains confidential and secure during transmission.
If we see this from a marketing perspective, we could say that HTTPS acts as a security detail for businesses, safeguarding the confidential details of transactions and interactions between customers and businesses. It’s like ensuring that sensitive conversations remain private within the market.
Conclusion
In essence, the Internet is a vibrant marketplace where businesses navigate the digital landscape to engage customers, share their stories, and ensure a secure and enjoyable shopping experience for all.
