Internet Basics: IP Address, DNS, Web Browsing

1. IP Address

An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique string of numbers separated by periods that identifies each computer using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network. It serves as the computer's digital address, allowing data to be sent to and from the correct destination.

Imagine an IP address as a house address. Just as a house address helps delivery services know where to deliver packages, an IP address helps the internet know where to send data packets.

2. DNS (Domain Name System)

DNS, or Domain Name System, is a hierarchical and decentralized naming system for computers, services, or other resources connected to the Internet. It translates human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into the numerical IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1) needed for locating and identifying computer services and devices with the underlying network protocols.

Think of DNS as a phonebook for the internet. When you want to call someone, you look up their name in the phonebook to find their phone number. Similarly, DNS translates domain names into IP addresses so your computer can connect to the correct website.

3. Web Browsing

Web browsing refers to the act of navigating through the World Wide Web using a web browser. A web browser is a software application that allows users to access and view content on the internet. It interprets HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to display web pages and provides tools for navigating between pages, managing bookmarks, and interacting with web applications.

Consider web browsing as exploring a vast library. Just as you use a library card to check out books, you use a web browser to access and interact with the wealth of information available on the internet.

4. HTTP and HTTPS

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the foundation of any data exchange on the Web and it is a client-server protocol, which means requests are initiated by the recipient, usually the Web browser. HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the secure version of HTTP, where communication between the browser and the website is encrypted.

Think of HTTP as a postcard. Anyone who handles the postcard can read its contents. HTTPS, on the other hand, is like sending a sealed letter with a lock. Only the intended recipient has the key to open and read the letter, ensuring privacy and security.

5. URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

A URL, or Uniform Resource Locator, is a specific character string that constitutes a reference to a resource. In most web browsers, the URL shows the location of the website. A typical URL might include the protocol (like http or https), the domain name, and the path to a specific page or file.

Imagine a URL as the address to a specific book in a library. The protocol tells you how to get there (walking, driving), the domain name is the library's name, and the path is the exact location of the book on the shelf.