What is the Internet?
The Internet is a worldwide connection of millions of computers connected to thousands
of different networks. These computers "communicate" that is, share, exchange, and
transmit data to another computer on the same or another network.
Who runs it?
Nobody owns or controls the Internet. It is a global information system similar in some
respects to telephone networks that allow anybody to call any other number anytime,
anywhere. Each network is run by its own operating center subject to the laws in their
country and international conventions. There are, instead, several "councils of elders,"
consortiums, societies, and communities whereby representatives from various countries,
institutions, and organizations collaborate occasionally to establish common standards for
hardware, software, and telecommunications technologies.
How did it come to be?