The Internet
...its effects are felt in all sectors of modern economy. The technology continues to evolve and no one can predict which direction it will go. Whilst some researchers are working to modify how it works others feel it should be built afresh. Whatever direction it goes, no one can ignore its significance in modern life.
Unlike the agrarian and industrial revolutions before it, the Internet does not bring people together with animals or machines to augment their muscle power. Conversely, it brings people’s brains together to revolutionise how they work and relate. Less than twenty years ago, most of the world did not know about the Internet. It was the private enclave of researchers and scientists. Today, its effects are far reaching in scope and consequence. Indeed, it has confirmed the adage “information is power” by demonstrating the supremacy of access to timely, relevant and wholesome information on business, education, health, environment, politics and social relationships.
What is the Internet?
The Internet is basically a global network of networks connecting millions of computers and other ICT tools to facilitate fast, convenient and reliable information sharing. Though its component networks are owned by individuals and organisations dispersed all over the world, no particular individual or organisation owns or controls the Internet. Universities, governments, businesses, churches, non-governmental organisations, the military and research institutions are some of the entities that own bits and pieces of the Internet. There are, however, organisations that regulate and coordinate activities of the Internet. Besides, there are other organisations that set and enforce standards and protocols for its use. The Internet has no political boundaries.
The Internet, as it is today, exhibits the following characteristics:
1. Global † It has a global...
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