1.1.1. Internet

Definition

The Internet is a worldwide system of interconnected computer networks. That's why the word Internet is a contraction of the phrase inter-network (GOSWAMI 2003, p. 7). It is used for the communication and the exchange of data. Each computer of a network is able to communicate with all other computers.

The Internet consists of the following groups of networks (GOSWAMI 2003, p. 7):

• Large networks which exist primarily to interconnect other networks. They currently consist of the network of several carriers: MCI, Sprint, AT & T, etc.
• Regional networks connection, for example, universities (e.g. ETH Zurich and University of Zurich) and colleges.
• Local networks, such as campus-wide university networks (e.g. ETH Zurich).

Have a look at the following interaction part (click on the thumbnail). It shows the hierarchy of the different networks. By clicking on the yellow rectangle, you reach the next network level. You can go back to the previous level by clicking in the grey maps.

Groups of Networks