What is the internet?

The internet is made up of a large number of computers which are linked together through live telephone lines.  These computers are 'on-line' 24 hours a day.  These computers are known as ISPs (Internet Service Providers) or Servers.  The ISPs are therefore accessible all the time to anyone who has a telephone line and a computer which has the ability to communicate with them.  In order to use the internet you need a computer with browser software (for example Internet Explorer or Netscape Communicator), a telephone line and a modem (a piece of equipment which connects the computer to the telephone socket). You also need to open what is known as a Dial-up Account with at least one ISP in order for your computer to gain access to the internet.  You can then log in and out of the internet as you want via the ISP that you have your account with.  Think of it as your gateway to the whole of the internet.  Your ISP will probably also collect and send email for you, and may also offer a number of other services. Back