Effective use of the internet Revision Notes

The internet is a vast global network that connects millions of computers, allowing for communication and information exchange worldwide. It is distinct from an intranet, which is a private network used within an organization, and an extranet, which extends controlled access to external users.

• Internet: Global network for public use.
• Intranet: Private network within an organization.
• Extranet: Controlled access network for external users.

The World Wide Web (WWW) is a system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the internet. Users navigate the web using browsers, which interpret and display web pages. Online platforms include blogs, forums, wikis, and social networks, each serving different purposes.

• WWW: Collection of web pages accessed via browsers.
• Blogs: Personal or topical journals.
• Forums: Online discussion boards.
• Wikis: Collaborative content creation sites.
• Social Networks: Platforms for social interaction.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are companies that provide access to the internet. Web addresses, known as URLs, specify the location of resources on the web. Hyperlinks connect web pages, and browsers display web content. Protocols like HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, and SSL ensure secure and efficient data transfer.

• ISPs: Provide internet access.
• URLs: Specify web resource locations.
• Hyperlinks: Connect web pages.
• Browsers: Display web content.
• HTTP/HTTPS: Protocols for web communication.
• FTP: Protocol for file transfers.
• SSL: Protocol for secure data transmission.

Search engines are tools that help users find information on the internet. To use them effectively, consider the speed of results, the volume of information returned, and the relevance and reliability of the sources. Evaluating these factors ensures that the information gathered is useful and trustworthy.

• Consider speed and volume of search results.
• Assess relevance and reliability of information.
• Use advanced search techniques for better results.

When evaluating online information, it is crucial to check its currency, trustworthiness, bias, and validity. This ensures that the information is accurate and reliable, which is essential for making informed decisions.

• Check the currency of information.
• Assess trustworthiness and bias.
• Ensure validity of the information.

The internet poses risks such as exposure to inappropriate or illegal content. To mitigate these risks, users can implement parental controls, educational restrictions, and ISP filters to manage data access and protect users, especially children.

• Risks: Exposure to inappropriate content.
• Controls: Parental controls, educational restrictions, ISP filters.