Summary of Computer Applications Technology Overview

## Introduction Accessing the web is an essential digital skill. This material explains how devices connect to the Internet and how web browsers let you view and interact with websites. You will learn about connection hardware, the difference between the Internet and the World Wide Web, common browser features, and practical tips for using bookmarks and organizing your online resources. > **Definition:** The Internet is a global network of connected computers and devices that exchange information. The World Wide Web (WWW) is a collection of web pages and websites that run on the Internet. ## 1. How Devices Connect to the Internet Devices and local networks connect to the Internet using different physical technologies. Two common ways are fibre-optic connections and cellular networks. ### 1.1 Fibre Optic Technology Fibre optic uses light signals in thin glass or plastic cables to carry data. It is fast and stable for homes, schools, and businesses. > **Definition:** A Fibre Optical Network Terminal (ONT) converts light signals from a fibre cable into electrical signals that your local network can use. Key hardware for fibre connections: - **Fibre cable from ISP:** Installed from the Internet Service Provider (ISP) to the location. - **Fibre ONT:** Converts optical signals to network data for your devices. - **Router:** Distributes the Internet connection to wired and wireless devices. Sometimes the ONT and router are combined into one device. Practical example: A school orders fibre from an ISP. The ISP installs a fibre cable and ONT. The school's router connects to the ONT and provides Wi-Fi for classrooms. Fun fact: Fibre-optic cables can carry much more data than copper cables because they transmit information using pulses of light rather than electrical signals. ### 1.2 Cellular Networks Cellular Internet uses mobile network towers. Devices connect using a SIM card in a router or a portable hotspot. Hardware options: - **Router with SIM card:** A desktop or wall-mounted router that connects via 4G/5G and provides Wi-Fi and wired ports. - **Portable hotspot:** A small battery-powered device that creates a Wi-Fi network from a cellular data connection. Real-world use: Portable routers are useful for temporary events or in areas without fixed broadband. ## 2. Software Required for Internet Access Several pieces of software are needed to make and use an Internet connection: - **Operating system:** Manages network settings and the overall device. - **Network drivers:** Allow the operating system to communicate with network hardware, e.g., Wi‑Fi adapters. - **Web browser:** Software used to access web pages (e.g., Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari). - **Security software:** Anti-malware and other protections to keep the device safe. - **Firewall:** Filters unwanted network traffic (often built into the operating system). Practical tip: Keep your browser and security software updated to reduce security risks. ## 3. Internet vs World Wide Web Use this comparison to keep the terms straight: | Feature | Internet | World Wide Web (WWW) | |---|---:|---| | What it is | Global network of connected devices | Collection of websites and web pages accessed over the Internet | | Includes | Email, file transfer, streaming, remote access | Websites, web pages, web apps (like Google Docs) | | Example services | Email, DNS, VPN | Websites, web-based documents, online forms | Did you know the first web browser, called WorldWideWeb (later renamed Nexus), was created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1990 and helped launch the WWW? ## 4. Web Browsers: What They Do A web browser retrieves web pages from servers and displays them on your screen. You type a website address (URL) into the address bar and the browser requests the page from the site’s server. > **Definition:** A web browser is software that requests, receives, and displays web content from servers so users can read and interact with web pages. Common browsers: **Google Chrome**, **Micro