Know and understand characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of using the internet including the differences between the internet, an intranet, an extranet and the World Wide Web (WWW), blog, forum, wiki, social networking

Published by Patrick Mutisya · 8 days ago

ICT 0417 – Communication: The Internet and Related Services

10 Communication – The Internet and Related Services

1. What is the Internet?

The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers and other devices that use the TCP/IP protocol suite to communicate. It provides a platform for a wide range of services such as email, file transfer, and the World Wide Web.

2. Characteristics of the Internet

  • Open and public – anyone with a connection can access most resources.

  • Decentralised – no single organisation controls the whole network.

  • Packet‑switched – data is broken into packets and routed independently.

  • Scalable – can accommodate millions of users and devices.

  • Standardised protocols – e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, SMTP.

3. Common Uses of the Internet

  1. Communication (email, instant messaging, video conferencing).

  2. Information retrieval (search engines, online encyclopaedias).

  3. Online services (banking, shopping, e‑learning).

  4. Entertainment (streaming video, music, gaming).

  5. Collaboration (cloud storage, shared documents, social media).

4. Advantages of Using the Internet

  • Instant access to a vast amount of information.

  • Facilitates rapid communication across distances.

  • Supports remote working and learning.

  • Enables cost‑effective distribution of goods and services.

  • Provides platforms for creativity and self‑expression.

5. Disadvantages of Using the Internet

  • Risk of exposure to inappropriate or harmful content.

  • Potential for cyber‑security threats (malware, phishing, hacking).

  • Privacy concerns – personal data can be collected and misused.

  • Digital divide – not everyone has reliable access.

  • Information overload and difficulty assessing credibility.

6. Comparing Internet, Intranet, Extranet and the World Wide Web (WWW)

FeatureInternetIntranetExtranetWorld Wide Web (WWW)
ScopeGlobal public networkPrivate network within an organisationRestricted part of an intranet shared with external partnersSystem of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the Internet
Access controlOpen – anyone can connect (subject to ISP)Closed – requires internal credentialsControlled – requires authentication for external usersUsually public, but can be restricted (e.g., login‑required sites)
Typical usesEmail, browsing, streaming, cloud servicesInternal communication, document sharing, HR systemsSupplier portals, partner collaboration toolsWebsites, web applications, online services
Technology baseTCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, etc.Same protocols as Internet but confined to a LAN/WANExtension of intranet using \cdot PN or secure web gatewaysHTTP/HTTPS protocol over the Internet

7. Web‑Based Communication Tools

7.1 Blog

A blog (short for “web log”) is an online journal where entries are displayed in reverse chronological order. Blogs can be personal, educational, or commercial.

  • Uses: sharing opinions, publishing tutorials, marketing.

  • Advantages: easy to update, encourages interaction via comments, improves SEO.

  • Disadvantages: requires regular content creation, may attract spam or negative comments.

7.2 Forum

A forum is a discussion board where users post messages in threads organized by topics.

  • Uses: technical support, community building, Q&A.

  • Advantages: searchable archives, asynchronous communication, fosters peer‑to‑peer help.

  • Disadvantages: moderation needed, can become cluttered with off‑topic posts.

7.3 Wiki

A wiki is a collaborative website that allows multiple users to create, edit, and organise content collectively.

  • Uses: knowledge bases, project documentation, educational resources.

  • Advantages: rapid content development, version control, encourages teamwork.

  • Disadvantages: risk of inaccurate information, vandalism, requires clear editing policies.

7.4 Social Networking

Social networking sites (SNS) enable users to create personal profiles, connect with others, and share content.

  • Uses: personal communication, brand promotion, networking for employment.

  • Advantages: wide reach, real‑time interaction, targeted advertising.

  • Disadvantages: privacy concerns, potential for cyber‑bullying, time‑consumption.

Suggested diagram: Venn diagram showing overlap between Internet, Intranet, Extranet and the World Wide Web, with examples of services in each area.

8. Summary

The Internet is a powerful, global communication tool with many advantages for education, business and personal use. Understanding its characteristics, as well as the differences between related concepts such as intranets, extranets, the WWW, blogs, forums, wikis and social networking, enables learners to use these technologies responsibly and effectively.