The story of the internet begins with the history of the internet backbone. Then it progresses from the internet service provider (ISP) to the home or business internet connection. Public and private local area networks connect to a set of high speed transmission lines using the TCP/IP protocol, and can include multiple configurations, such as wireless networks and cloud computing (a type of distributed architecture).
Internet Backbone
The internet backbone was funded and managed by the National Science Foundation (NSF) during the 1980s and early 1990s. In 1991, numerous privately owned long-distance connections were established on the backbone. And in 1995, NSF withdrew completely from internet oversight.
Prior to NSF, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) developed and monitored the communication system that would become the modern internet.
Internet Service Provider
Corporate computers connect to the internet through a pc known as a gateway. The gateway establishes the connection to the internet service provider, or ISP. Home computer users are able to connect to their ISP directly, or through a router if a home network is in place.
Internet Connection
Connection types are numerous. Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) offer high speed internet connection. Dial-up technology, using a modem is the traditional, and much slower, method of internet connection. ISDN and DSL are always on technologies, meaning that they are always connected to the ISP.
Dial-up establishes a connection for the duration of use, then terminates the session, much like hanging up at the end of a telephone conversation. The establishment of the connection between the modem and ISP is sometimes called the handshake.
TCP/IP
TCP/IP is the network protocol used to communicate between computers on the internet. TCP/IP governs the messages sent and received. Other protocols include Ethernet and Token Ring. However, those are used within a LAN. TCP/IP is the internet standard.
Wireless Networks
Wireless networks are able to connect to the internet, in addition to traditional land line methodologies. Wireless access can be achieved via a cellular phone, laptop with a wireless modem, or a wireless router.
Cloud Computing
The high availability and flexible architecture of the internet allow for concepts such as cloud computing to be implemented by home users and corporations. Users are able to access their documents from any computer connected to the internet, rather than having to transport their data with them on a laptop, usb drive, or other device.
References:
Protect Yourself Online. Matthew Danda. Microsoft Press, 2001.
Christine Decourlande - Christine Decourlande has worked in the information technology industry since 1996. She holds a degree in Computer Information Systems ...
