me individual or organization managing the project. Yet no one has a monopoly on access to or use of the Internet. One of the reasons the Internet is so successful is the commitment of its developers to producing “open” standards. The specifications that computers need to communicate are publicly and freely available, published so that everyone can obtain them.The Internet does not have a powerful supercomputer controlling its operation by feeding it commands. Rather, all the networks and computers act together in the exchange of information and communication. The technology that makes it happen is known as internetworking, which enables the networks and computers to communicate.COMMUNICATIONWhat distinguishes the Internet from traditional communication technologies is the level of interaction and the speed at which users can broadcast their messages. No other source gives every user the capability to communicate instantly with thousands of people.Everyone has an opinion, and all opinions seem to end up on the Internet. The Internet acts as a sort of consumer report, with people offering up views, experiences, recommendations, and warnings. You can use the Internet to ask for help from thousands of people, to make an announcement, or to advertise and event or a new service.INFORMATIONThere is a constantly growing number of valuable information resources available on the Internet. These include free and public archives, library catalogs, government services, and commercial databases. It is not good enough anymore to turn on the news on your television and wait for the latest weather forecast. On the Internet, you can check the latest weather and order goods and services online when you need them. You can browse online real-estate guides looking for a house thousands of miles away instead of going to a realtor first. The Internet can help you make intelligent decisions.VIRTUAL COMMUNITIESThe Internet excels in bri...
