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COMPUTER NETWORKS:
7 INTERNET, WEBSITE, AND
WEB BROWSERS
Chapter Outline
7.1 Introduction to Internet
7.2 Introduction to Web Services
In the previous chapter, we studied the fundamentals of computer networks, including their components,
evolution, topologies, and types, as well as the vital role that various network devices play. In this chapter, we
will look at the essential components of the internet, such as URLs and the World Wide Web. We look at its
various applications, which range from online and email to chat and VoIP. In addition, we deconstruct websites,
distinguishing between webpages, static and dynamic content, and delving into the critical role of web servers
and hosting. The chapter also covers online browsers, their typical usage, settings, add-ons, plug-ins, and the
complexities of cookies, providing readers with a full overview of the internet's essentials.
7.1 Introduction to Internet
The Internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, access information, and conduct various activities online.
At the core of this digital revolution are concepts such as URLs, the World Wide Web (WWW), and their applications.
The WWW encompasses a vast network of interconnected websites, email services, chat platforms, and Voice over
Internet Protocol (VoIP) applications. Understanding the distinction between a website and a webpage is crucial, as it
defines the structure and content organization of online platforms. Additionally, web pages can be categorized as static
or dynamic, depending on their ability to change in response to user interactions. Behind the scenes, web servers and
hosting services play a vital role in delivering websites to users. Web browsers act as gateways to the online world, with
popular options such as Chrome, Firefox, and Safari. These browsers offer customizable settings, support for add-ons
and plug-ins, and utilize cookies to enhance user experiences. Together, these concepts form the foundation of the
modern Internet landscape, shaping how we interact with online content and services.
7.1.1 Internet and WWW
Sir Timothy John Berners-Lee (also known as Tim BL) introduced the World Wide Web (WWW). He developed a browser,
a server, and the first website. WWW is a collection of documents and resources (for example, music, documents and
movies). Resources are identified using unique Uniform Resource Identifiers (URIs), also known as Uniform Resource
Locators (URLs). The resources are hosted on computers spread worldwide and are linked by hyperlinks and URIs on
the Internet. Web resources are typically accessed using Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) or Hypertext Transfer
Protocol Secure (HTTPS), which adds security functionality to HTTP.
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