The internet is a worldwide network of networks linked by a common set of protocols. It is used by billions of people everyday for loads of applications like:
- world wide web
- instant messaging
- file sharing
- video games
The internet is very reliable, this is achieved through redundancy (e.g. many routes from one place to another.) Computers use digital signals. Connections are sometimes made through telephone signals however this is not needed if you link digitally.
Protocols: Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol are the things that define the details of how data is sent and received through network adapters, hubs, switches, routers and other network communications hardware.
Bandwidth: the difference between upper and lower frequencies in a set of carrier signals.
Broadband: a channel carries many frequencies. Has a bigger data capacity than narrow band (telephone). 4Mb/s is considered the minimum speed for broadband.
ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line): uses the spare capacity on plain old telephone system. More bandwidth in down direction than up as most users download more than they send.
Cable: subscription to cable television means you can often access the internet through the cable modem.
