What is the Internet?
The Internet is a worldwide network of millions of computer systems. As an open data network, it is basically accessible to everyone.
There is no central administration of the contents. This means that it is not possible to clearly determine from which sources information on the Internet originates and whether it is correct. Great care should be taken with sensitive data on the Internet in particular. In addition, when information is transmitted unencrypted, it is not clear who can read everything.
The Internet is a fast, efficient and effective information and communication medium for private individuals, companies and administrations.
It can be used in a variety of ways: as a fast information provider, as a transport medium for e-mails, for exchanging data between departments and business partners, and much more. The most important part of the Internet is the World Wide Web (WWW), through which one “surfs” with a web browser.
Estimated number of Internet domains (e.g., hamburg.de):
- 1998: 29 million
- 2006: 400 million
- 2014: 1 billion
- 2020: 1.2 billion
Source: Internet Systems Consortium, Inc; Netcraft Ltd.