Internet, a unique system architecture that has revolutionized global communication and monetary systems by enabling various computer networks throughout the globe to interconnect. A fast growing technology, the Internet offers the information exchange of data at high speed over broad geographical locations. Sometimes called the World Wide Web, the Internet has enormous potential to transform how business is done by providing new means for consumer and enterprise interaction. However, while the Internet provides a valuable service, it does require upkeep and expansion.
Broadband Internet connection. One of the fastest growing sectors of the Internet is the provision of broadband Internet access. Broadband Internet service allows users to obtain and receive high-speed Internet via a personal computer, typically a modem on the modem itself or an Ethernet card attached to a PC. Broadband Internet service can either use cable modems or DSL; depending on the quality of service and the ISP. DSL is widely available in the US, although it is still expensive compared to cable Internet access.
ISPS. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) provide broadband Internet service to customers through their own backbone or the Internet itself. These ISPs are the backbone to the Internet and provide high-speed access to content and network resources. The most commonly used ISPs are AT&T, Verizon, Charter, DSL providers, and many local area networks (LANs).
E-mail. E-mail is perhaps the single most widely used application on the Internet, used by individuals and businesses alike from around the globe on a daily basis. It allows users to send and receive electronic mail that is usually stored on servers, accessible only through the internet. This is different from other computer networks where the data is normally stored on machines and accessed locally. E-mail services have grown dramatically over the years, especially since the introduction of web-mail services that are capable of delivering a message from one computer to another.
IPV6. Internet Protocol version 6 offers faster internet connection speeds than any of the previous versions. This new internet technology provides better security than the older versions, as well as advanced features such as secure Sockets Layer (SSL) and advanced authentication which include fingerprints, digital certificates and digital signatures.
Routing. Routing is the process of arranging computers in a virtual manner so that they can be reached by clients. This involves deciding the shortest path between two or more computers and arranging it on a map. Simple routing table maps the path of a TCP connection to IP packets. Some newer IPTV networks rely on routing tables to route video and audio traffic to ensure smooth connectivity.