What Is the Internet?

The Journey Inside℠, an Intel® Education Program

The simplest definition of the internet is that it's a network of computer networks. A computer network is a group of computers connected to each other so they can easily communicate and share files and resources (such as printers and scanners). Many organizations and businesses have networks that connect offices all over the country and world.

At its heart, the internet is a backbone of high-speed data communication lines through which any connected computer can trade information with any other connected computer.

One of the most remarkable things about the internet is the wealth of information it puts at your fingertips. It's an incredible fountain of knowledge fed by sources all over the world. You can find everything from information on the latest cancer research to strategies for beating the latest computer game. The information never stops either. New pages are being added daily. The price of admission? A computer and an internet connection through an Internet Service Provider (ISP), which is a company that provides internet access.