Topic 8 Part 1: Internet and WWW

Introduction to Internet and World Wide Web

Learning Outcomes

• Students will be able to define the evaluation of the internet, understanding its significance in modern communication.

• The course aims for students to articulate key terms related to the internet effectively.

• Discussion on concepts surrounding the World Wide Web (WWW) will be conducted clearly and concisely.

• Students will explore cloud computing concepts, gaining clarity on what it entails.

Evolution of the Internet

Origin and Development

• The internet originated as an experiment in the late 1960s by ARPA (Advanced Research Projects Agency), now known as DARPA, focusing on connecting networks for research purposes.

• Initial users were primarily scientists, students, and academics from universities and private companies involved in research collaboration.

Phases of Change

Phase 1: Pre-Arpanet Era

• Before 1969, Arpanet was established for research and resource sharing among U.S.-based institutions. Users were mainly academic professionals.

Phase 2: Protocol Development (1970 - 1990)

• From 1970 to 1990, protocols like TCP/IP became widely used; however, access remained limited to universities and government agencies as a communication tool.

Phase 3: Rise of Hypertext (1990 - 1997)

• The introduction of hypertext techniques led to user-friendly interfaces with browsers that attracted public interest significantly during this period.

Phase 4: Rapid User Growth (Post-1997)

• A drastic increase in internet users occurred; businesses began utilizing the internet extensively, leading to widespread discussions about its implications across various media outlets.

Phase 5: Dot-com Bubble Burst (2001 - 2017)

• Many dot-com companies closed down post-bubble burst; however, initiatives continued to enhance internet capabilities despite challenges faced during this era.

Phase 6: Internet of Things (2017 - Present)

• Currently characterized by IoT developments where physical objects connect through networks; examples include smart home devices allowing remote control via smartphones.