Introduction to the Internet

The internet is a global network that connects millions of computers and devices, enabling
communication and the exchange of information. It is one of the most important and widely used
resources in the world, allowing users to send emails, videos, photos, and messages. In essence, the
internet is a vast interconnected network of computers and electronic devices that enables access to
various applications, websites, and online services.

History of the Internet

The history of the internet dates back to 1960 when the first operational model, ARPANET (Advanced
Research Projects Agency Network), was developed. ARPANET allowed multiple computers to be
connected within a single network, marking a significant technological breakthrough. The first
message was sent over ARPANET in October 1969. From then, the internet evolved and grew rapidly,
becoming a fundamental tool for communication, information sharing, and entertainment.

How is the Internet Set Up?

The internet operates through various physical mediums such as optical fiber cables, copper wires,
and wireless technologies like 2G, 3G, 4G, and Wi-Fi. These physical setups connect devices to the
internet through networks like LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), and MAN
(Metropolitan Area Network). The organization responsible for managing internet protocols, such as
IP addresses, is ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers), based in the USA.

How Does the Internet Work?

The internet works with the collaboration of clients (e.g., laptops, smartphones) and servers (large
computers that store websites). When you access a website, the client (your device) sends a request
to the server. The server then responds with the content you are looking for.

 IP Addresses: Every device connected to the internet has a unique identifier called an IP
address (Internet Protocol Address), similar to an Aadhaar number for individuals. This
address helps identify devices and websites on the network. For example, an IP address
might look like 192.154.3.29, and it helps route the data packets to the correct destination.

 Domain Name System (DNS): Instead of remembering numerical IP addresses, domain

names (like www.google.com) are used. The DNS helps translate the domain names into IP
addresses, so the server knows where to send the data.

When you use mobile data or Wi-Fi, data travels through optical fiber cables, reaches local towers,
and then reaches your device via wireless signals (electromagnetic waves). Routers play a role in
converting optical signals to electrical signals, helping the internet reach your computer or
smartphone.

What is an IP Address?

An IP address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each device connected to the internet. It
helps in routing the data packets to their destination. There are two types of IP addresses:

 Static IP: Permanent, doesn't change.

 Dynamic IP: Assigned by the ISP and may change.

 Private IP: Used within a local network.

 Public IP: Assigned to a device for internet communication.

World Wide Web (WWW)

The World Wide Web (WWW) refers to the collection of all web pages and web documents that are
accessible via the internet. These documents are linked through hyperlinks, making it easy to
navigate from one page to another. The WWW was created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, initially to
help researchers collaborate. It uses HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) for data exchange.

Difference Between World Wide Web and the Internet

 World Wide Web (WWW) is a service that enables the retrieval of documents from the web.

 The Internet is the infrastructure that connects computers and allows communication
between them.

 WWW is a subset of the internet, while the internet is the broader network of systems and
protocols.

 WWW uses HTTP, while the internet uses IP addresses.

Uses of the Internet

1. Online Businesses (E-commerce): Websites like Amazon and Flipkart allow people to shop
online from anywhere.

2. Digital Payments: Services like Paytm and Google Pay enable cashless transactions and UPI-
based payments.

3. Education: Online learning platforms provide educational resources, courses, and tutoring,
making education accessible globally.

4. Social Networking: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram connect people around the world,
allowing them to share content and communicate.

5. Entertainment: Streaming services like Netflix and YouTube offer movies, TV shows, and
music.

6. Communication: Email, messaging apps, and video calls help people stay connected,
regardless of distance.

Security and Privacy on the Internet

With the vast amount of data being shared on the internet, security is a major concern. Cybercrimes
such as hacking, identity theft, and cyberbullying are on the rise. To protect online privacy, users
should:

 Use strong, unique passwords.

 Install antivirus software.

 Enable private browsing or use a VPN.

 Use HTTPS websites for secure communication.

 Avoid accessing public Wi-Fi without security.

Social Impact of the Internet

The internet has drastically changed social dynamics, helping people build relationships and
communities. However, it has also introduced issues like cyberbullying, misinformation, and social
isolation. Social media platforms allow for real-time communication and interaction but can also
contribute to mental health challenges if overused.

Advantages of the Internet

 Convenience: You can shop, communicate, learn, and work from home.

 Access to Information: Instant access to vast amounts of data and educational resources.

 New Job Roles: The internet has created new career opportunities in digital marketing,
content creation, and freelancing.

 Communication: The internet has removed geographical barriers, allowing for instant
communication across the world.

 GPS and Maps: Navigation tools like Google Maps make it easy to find directions and avoid
traffic.

Disadvantages of the Internet

 Time Wastage: Excessive use of social media and entertainment can reduce productivity.

 Health Issues: Prolonged screen time can lead to eye strain, poor posture, and other health
concerns.

 Cyber Crimes: Hacking, identity theft, and data breaches are common threats.

 Negative Social Impact: The internet has been used to spread hate, negativity, and
misinformation.

difference between a Web Server and a Web Client:

Aspect Web Server Web Client

Software/hardware that hosts websites and Software/device that requests

Definition
serves resources. resources from the server.

Responds to client requests and sends Initiates requests to access and use
Role
resources (HTML, CSS, JSON, etc.). resources from a server.

Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox,

Examples Apache, Nginx, Microsoft IIS, Tomcat.
Safari), mobile/web apps.

Sends requests to servers (active

Interaction Waits for incoming requests (passive role).
role).

Usually hosted on remote machines or Runs on user devices like PCs,

Location
cloud. smartphones.

Primary Displays or processes the data

Stores, processes, and delivers data or files.
Functionality received from the server.

Primarily HTTP/HTTPS, and sometimes FTP, Primarily HTTP/HTTPS for web

Protocols Used
SMTP. content access.

Dependency Requires a client to make requests. Requires a server to respond to its

Aspect Web Server Web Client

requests.

Examples in Hosting and delivering a webpage or API Requesting and rendering a webpage
Action data. or consuming API data.

In essence:

 The web server is the provider of resources.

 The web client is the consumer of those resources.

Aspect Web Browser Web Application

A software application designed to run

A software application used to access
Definition within a browser or as a standalone
websites and resources on the internet.
service over the web.

Provides specific functionalities or services

Acts as an interface to access and
Purpose to users, often tailored for a particular
display web pages, files, and resources.
purpose.

Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Gmail, Google Docs, Facebook, Twitter,
Examples
Microsoft Edge. Slack.

Platform Installed on a user’s device (desktop or Runs inside a browser or on a platform

Dependency mobile) to browse the web. using a browser engine.

Offers specific services like

Navigates and interacts with different
User Interaction communication, file sharing, or
websites or web applications.
productivity tools.

Key User interface, rendering engine, Backend (server-side logic) and frontend
Components networking, and security layers. (user interface running in a browser).

Displays web content using HTTP/HTTPS Provides specific interactive features, often
Functionality requests and supports requiring authentication and dynamic
plugins/extensions. updates.

Operates independently but provides Requires a browser to run unless it’s a

Dependency
access to web apps and websites. progressive or hybrid app.

Used to browse and access the internet Focused on delivering a particular service
Usage
broadly. or task.

Usually updated by the developer on the

Requires updates to the browser
Updates server-side, with no installation required
software itself.
by the user.

In Simple Terms:

 Web Browser: A tool you use to open and view websites or web applications.

 Web Application: The content or service you interact with through the browser.

Difference Between Private and Public IP Addresses

Private IP Address Public IP Address

The scope of Private IP is local. The scope of Public IP is global.

It is used to communicate outside the

It is used to communicate within the network.
network.

Private IP addresses of the systems connected in a Public IP may differ in a uniform or non-
network differ in a uniform manner. uniform manner.

It works only on LAN. It is used to get internet service.

It is used to load the network operating system. It is controlled by ISP.

It is available free of cost. It is not free of cost.

Private IP can be known by entering “ipconfig” on Public IP can be known by searching “what
the command prompt. is my ip” on Google.

Range:

10.0.0.0 – 10.255.255.255, Range: Besides private IP addresses, the

172.16.0.0 – 172.31.255.255, rest are public.

192.168.0.0 – 192.168.255.255

Example: 192.168.1.10 Example: 17.5.7.8

Private IP uses numeric code that is not unique Public IP uses a numeric code that is
and can be used again unique and cannot be used by other

The public IP address has no security and is

Private IP addresses are secure
subjected to attack

Private IP addresses require NAT to communicate Public IP does not require a network
with devices translation

Aspect Static IP Address Dynamic IP Address

Provider Assigned by an ISP (Internet Service Assigned automatically by DHCP (Dynamic

Aspect Static IP Address Dynamic IP Address

Provider). Host Configuration Protocol).

Does not change; always stays the Changes periodically or when the device
Change
same. reconnects.

Less secure as it's easier to target by

Security More secure as it changes frequently.
hackers.

Harder to set up; requires manual

Ease of Setup Easier to set up; assigned automatically.
configuration.

Can be easily traced as it doesn’t

Traceability Harder to trace due to frequent changes.
change.

Very stable; ideal for servers or Less stable; may cause issues in consistent
Stability
hosting. tasks.

Higher cost due to manual setup and Lower cost; often included in basic
Cost
maintenance. internet services.

Used for tasks like hosting websites, Used for general purposes like browsing,
Best Use
servers, and remote access. streaming, and personal use.

Data Better for more confidential data as it

Suitable for less confidential data.
Confidentiality adds an extra layer of security.

Slightly harder to diagnose due to

Troubleshooting Easier to diagnose network issues.
changing IPs.

Key Takeaways:

 Static IP: Fixed, stable, better for servers and hosting but less secure and more costly.

 Dynamic IP: Changes over time, more secure, cost-effective, and ideal for personal use.

WWW Internet

It is originated in 1989. It is originated in 1960.

WWW is an interconnected network of websites and Internet is used to connect a

documents that can be accessed via the Internet. computer with other computer .

Internet used protocols such

WWW used protocols such as HTTP
as TCP/IP

It is based on software. It is based on hardware.

There is a entire infrastructure in

It is a service contained inside an infrastructure.
internet.
World Wide Web (WWW) and Related Protocols in Detail

1. World Wide Web (WWW)

The World Wide Web (WWW) is a system of interlinked documents and multimedia content that is
accessed via the internet. It provides a way to navigate through content using hyperlinks and URLs
(Uniform Resource Locators). It is often mistakenly referred to as the "internet," but it is just one of
the many services provided by the internet.

Key Components of the WWW:

 Web Pages: Documents that contain information, typically in HTML (HyperText Markup
Language) format. These are the building blocks of websites.

 Web Browsers: Software applications that allow users to access the WWW. Examples include
Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.

 Web Servers: Computers that store and serve web pages to clients (the users' browsers).
They respond to HTTP requests by delivering web pages.

 Web Clients: Devices (e.g., computers, smartphones) that send requests to web servers and
display the content provided by the servers.

2. Protocols Related to the World Wide Web

Several protocols help enable the functioning of the World Wide Web. Below are the most important
protocols related to the WWW:

A. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)

Definition: HTTP is the protocol used by the World Wide Web to transfer and receive web pages and
other resources (like images, videos, etc.) between a client (web browser) and a server.

 How HTTP Works:

o Request: The client (e.g., your browser) sends an HTTP request to the server to
access a specific resource (like a web page).

o Response: The server processes the request and sends back an HTTP response with
the requested content (e.g., an HTML page).

 Structure of HTTP Request:

o Method: The action to be performed (e.g., GET, POST).

o URL: The address of the resource.

o Headers: Additional information about the request (e.g., browser type, accepted
content types).

o Body: The content being sent (e.g., form data for POST requests).

 HTTP Methods:

o GET: Retrieves data from the server (most common method).

o POST: Sends data to the server (used for form submissions).

o PUT: Uploads data to the server (used for file uploads).

o DELETE: Deletes data on the server.

Example: When you type "www.example.com" into a browser, your browser sends a GET request to
the server hosting the website.

B. HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure)

Definition: HTTPS is an encrypted version of HTTP that uses SSL/TLS protocols to secure the data
transmitted between the web browser and the server.

 How HTTPS Works:

o HTTPS establishes a secure, encrypted connection between the client and the server,
ensuring that any data exchanged (such as passwords or credit card details) cannot
be easily intercepted by attackers.

 Encryption:

o SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) protocols are used to
establish a secure connection. These protocols ensure data integrity, confidentiality,
and authentication.

 Why HTTPS is Important:

o Protects sensitive data from cyber attacks (e.g., man-in-the-middle attacks).

o Websites with HTTPS show a padlock icon in the browser, indicating that the
connection is secure.

Example: Banking websites and e-commerce sites like Amazon use HTTPS to ensure secure
transactions.

C. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

Definition: FTP is a protocol used to transfer files between a client and a server over the internet or a
local network. FTP is widely used for uploading and downloading files to and from a website.

 How FTP Works:

o Client: A user typically uses FTP client software (e.g., FileZilla, WinSCP) to upload or
download files.

o Server: The FTP server stores the files and manages the transfer requests.

 Modes of FTP:

o Active Mode: The server establishes the connection to the client.

o Passive Mode: The client establishes the connection to the server.

 Security:

o FTP by itself is not secure, as it sends data (including login credentials) in plain text.

o FTPS: FTP Secure uses SSL/TLS encryption to protect data during transfer.

o SFTP: Secure FTP uses SSH (Secure Shell) for encrypted file transfer.

Example: Web developers use FTP to upload files (HTML, images, etc.) to web servers.

D. DNS (Domain Name System)

Definition: DNS is a system that translates human-readable domain names (e.g., www.example.com)
into numerical IP addresses (e.g., 192.0.2.1) that computers use to identify each other on the
network.

 How DNS Works:

o When a user types a domain name into a browser, a DNS query is sent to a DNS
server to resolve that domain into an IP address.

o The DNS server responds with the corresponding IP address, and the browser can
then connect to the server hosting the website.

 Components of DNS:

o DNS Resolver: The client-side component that sends DNS queries.

o DNS Server: A server that contains a database of domain names and their associated
IP addresses.

o DNS Records: These include A records (domain to IP), CNAME (canonical name), MX
(mail exchange), etc.

Example: When you visit "www.google.com," the browser uses DNS to convert it into an IP address
(e.g., 142.250.190.78).

E. SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)

Definition: SMTP is a protocol used to send and receive emails across the internet. It is used by email
servers to transfer email messages.

 How SMTP Works:

o Sender: The sender's email client (e.g., Gmail) sends the email via an SMTP server to
the recipient's email server.

o Receiver: The recipient’s email client then retrieves the email from the server,
typically using POP3 (Post Office Protocol) or IMAP (Internet Message Access
Protocol).

 SMTP Server:

o It checks the destination email address and forwards the email to the appropriate
server.

Example: Sending an email from your Gmail account uses SMTP to transfer the email to the
recipient’s email server.

3. Summary of Related Protocols

Protocol Purpose Example

Transmits web pages and resources from a server

HTTP Accessing a webpage.
to a browser.

Secure version of HTTP, using encryption for safer

HTTPS Online banking, shopping.
data transfer.

FTP Transfers files between a client and a server. Uploading files to a website.

DNS Resolves human-readable domain names to IP Typing "www.google.com" into the

Protocol Purpose Example

addresses. browser.

Sends and receives email messages between

SMTP Sending an email via Gmail.
servers.

eLibrary and Google Scholar: Overview and Key Differences

1. eLibrary

An eLibrary (electronic library) is a digital version of a traditional library that provides access to a
wide variety of digital resources, including books, journals, articles, research papers, and other
educational content. It serves as a centralized platform where users can access, read, download, and
sometimes borrow materials related to different subjects.

Key Features of eLibrary:

 Digital Resources: eLibraries host a variety of content, such as eBooks, academic journals,
research papers, and multimedia resources (e.g., videos and audio lectures).

 Access: eLibraries are accessible through the internet, making it easy for users to access
educational materials from anywhere.

 Search Functionality: Advanced search options to find specific content based on topics,
authors, keywords, etc.

 Subscription-Based/Free: Some eLibraries are free to access, while others require a

subscription or membership. Many universities provide access to specialized eLibraries for
students and faculty members.

 Format: Materials may be available in various digital formats, such as PDF, ePub, and HTML,
making them easy to read on different devices (PCs, tablets, and e-readers).

Examples of eLibraries:

 JSTOR: A widely-used eLibrary offering access to academic journals, books, and primary
sources across various disciplines.

 Project Gutenberg: A free eLibrary offering over 60,000 public domain eBooks, especially
classic literary works.

 National Digital Library of India: A digital library initiative offering free access to educational
resources across different fields.

 Internet Archive: Provides access to millions of digital books, films, music, and archived
websites.

Benefits of eLibraries:

 Convenience: Access to resources at any time and from anywhere.

 Cost-Effective: Many eLibraries offer free access to valuable materials.

 Resource Availability: Many academic and research materials are available in digital format,
making it easier for students and researchers to access them.

2. Google Scholar
Google Scholar is a freely accessible search engine developed by Google that indexes scholarly
literature, including articles, theses, books, conference papers, patents, and reports. It is designed to
help researchers, academics, and students locate relevant academic content from a variety of
sources.

Key Features of Google Scholar:

 Search for Academic Content: Google Scholar allows users to search for research papers,
theses, books, conference proceedings, patents, and legal documents. The search results are
primarily focused on scholarly articles.

 Citations: Google Scholar shows how many times an article has been cited by other works.
This helps gauge the impact and relevance of a paper in its field.

 Author Profiles: Researchers can create and maintain profiles on Google Scholar to track
their publications, citations, and other academic activities.

 Full-Text Access: While Google Scholar often provides links to the full text of articles, it
depends on availability. It may link to free versions or publisher websites (some may require
institutional access or payment).

 Metrics: Google Scholar provides citation metrics, including the h-index, which helps
researchers track their citation performance and impact in the academic community.

Benefits of Google Scholar:

 Comprehensive Coverage: Google Scholar indexes academic content from a wide range of
disciplines and sources, including journals, academic publishers, universities, and
professional societies.

 Free to Use: Google Scholar is free for anyone to use and doesn’t require a subscription.

 Author Citation Tracking: It provides insights into an author’s academic impact and shows
which other works have cited a particular publication.

 Ease of Use: It is user-friendly, and users can quickly find relevant papers and articles on
specific research topics.

Example:

 A researcher interested in machine learning algorithms can use Google Scholar to find
articles, books, and theses on the topic. It would provide links to various sources, some of
which may be free, while others may require access through institutional libraries or paid
subscriptions.

Comparison: eLibrary vs. Google Scholar

Aspect eLibrary Google Scholar

Provides access to a wide range of digital Specialized search engine for academic
Purpose
resources (books, journals, articles). literature (papers, books, patents).

May require subscription or institutional Free to use for everyone, though some
Access
access. content may be behind paywalls.

Offers digital books, articles, journals, Focuses on scholarly articles, theses,

Content
multimedia, etc. research papers, and patents.

Search Advanced search options for specific Search based primarily on keywords,
Functionality topics, authors, and formats. author names, and titles.

Examples JSTOR, Project Gutenberg, National Digital Google Scholar, Google Citations.
Aspect eLibrary Google Scholar

Library of India.

Some eLibraries are subscription-based, Completely free, but some content may
Cost
others are free. require access rights.

Additional May provide downloading and borrowing Provides citation information, h-index,
Features options. and academic metrics.

Conclusion

 eLibraries are comprehensive platforms that host a wide range of digital materials, including
books, journals, and multimedia content, making them a great resource for students,
researchers, and professionals.

 Google Scholar, on the other hand, is a specialized academic search engine designed to help
users find scholarly papers, articles, and citations across various disciplines, providing a
simple and free way to access academic literature.