Week 1: BIT 3105 Internet Programming

Introduction to Internet

The Internet is the global system of interconnected computer networks that use the Internet protocol suite to link
devices worldwide. The purpose of the internet is to communicate between computers that are interconnected
with each other. Internet is accessible to every user all over the world.

Hardware and Software Requirements for Internet connection

Hardware Requirements
To connect to the internet, you typically need a combination of hardware and services. Here are the basic
hardware requirements for connecting to the internet:

1. Device (Computer or Smartphone): You need a device capable of accessing the internet. This could be
a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

2. Network Interface Card (NIC) or Wireless Adapter: Most devices come with built-in network
interfaces for wired connections (Ethernet) or wireless adapters for Wi-Fi. If your device doesn't have a
built-in NIC or wireless capability, you may need to add an external adapter.

3. Router or Modem:
 Router: For a home or small office network, a router is essential. It allows multiple devices to
connect to the internet through a single internet connection. Routers often include built-in Wi-Fi
capabilities for wireless connections.
 Modem: If you have a wired broadband connection (DSL, cable, fiber-optic), you'll need a
modem to connect your router to the internet.

4. Internet Service Provider (ISP): You need to subscribe to an internet service provided by an ISP. ISPs
offer various types of connections such as DSL, cable, fiber-optic, satellite, or cellular data.

5. Ethernet Cables or Wi-Fi Connection:

 Ethernet Cable: If you are using a wired connection, you'll need Ethernet cables to connect
your device to the router or modem.
 Wi-Fi Connection: If you are using a wireless connection, make sure your device has Wi-Fi
capability, and you'll need to enter the Wi-Fi network credentials.

6. Power Supply: Ensure all devices are connected to power sources, including your computer, router, and
modem.

7. Firewall and Security Measures: While not strictly hardware, it's crucial to have security measures in
place. This includes a firewall on your router or device to protect against unauthorized access and
antivirus software to protect against malware.

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Software Requirements
Connecting to the internet also requires certain software components to facilitate communication between your
device and the network. Here are the key software requirements for connecting to the internet:

1. Operating System (OS):

 Ensure that your device is running an operating system that supports internet connectivity.
Common operating systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS have built-in
networking capabilities.

2. Device Drivers:
 Ensure that the necessary drivers for your device's network interface card (NIC) or wireless
adapter are installed. Most operating systems automatically install these drivers, but in some
cases, you might need to manually download and install them.

3. TCP/IP Protocol Suite:

 The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is the fundamental suite of
protocols used for internet communication. Most modern operating systems come with TCP/IP
support built-in.

4. Web Browser:
 To access websites and online content, you need a web browser. Common browsers include
Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and others. Ensure that your browser
is up-to-date for better security and performance.

5. Network Configuration Software:

 In most cases, your device will automatically obtain an IP address through DHCP (Dynamic
Host Configuration Protocol). However, you may need to configure network settings manually
in some situations, such as specifying a static IP address or DNS server.

6. Security Software:
 Install and update security software, including antivirus and anti-malware tools. This helps
protect your device from online threats while connected to the internet.

7. VPN (Virtual Private Network) Software (optional):

 If you want to enhance your online privacy and security, you can use a VPN. VPN software
creates a secure, encrypted connection to a server, masking your IP address and encrypting data
transmitted over the internet.

8. Firewall:
 Ensure that your device's firewall is activated. Firewalls help monitor and control incoming and
outgoing network traffic, adding an extra layer of security to your connection.

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 9. ISP Configuration Software:
 Some ISPs provide specific software or configuration settings for connecting to their network.
Follow any instructions provided by your ISP to set up your connection correctly.
Methods of connecting to the Internet
There are various methods to connect to the internet, and the choice of method often depends on factors such as
location, available infrastructure, and personal preferences. Here are some common methods of connecting to the
internet:

1. Broadband (DSL, Cable, Fiber-optic):

 DSL (Digital Subscriber Line): Uses existing telephone lines to provide high-speed internet
access.
 Cable: Utilizes cable television infrastructure to deliver high-speed internet.
 Fiber-optic: Offers extremely high-speed internet through fiber-optic cables that transmit data
using light signals.

2. Wi-Fi:
 Connect to the internet wirelessly using Wi-Fi technology. This is commonly used in homes,
offices, and public places. You need a Wi-Fi-enabled device (e.g., laptop, smartphone) and a Wi-
Fi router.

3. Dial-up:
 An older method that uses a standard telephone line to establish a connection to the internet.
Dial-up is slow compared to broadband and is now less common.

4. Satellite:
 Uses satellite signals to provide internet access. It is often used in rural or remote areas where
other types of connections are not available.

5. Mobile Data (3G, 4G, 5G):

 Utilizes cellular networks to provide internet access. Mobile data can be accessed through
smartphones, tablets, and mobile hotspot devices.

6. Ethernet (Wired Connection):

 Connects directly to the internet using an Ethernet cable. This is commonly used in homes and
businesses for stable and high-speed connections.

7. Public Wi-Fi:
 Access the internet through public Wi-Fi networks available in places like cafes, airports,
libraries, and hotels. Users typically connect wirelessly using their devices.

8. Tethering:

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  Share your mobile device's internet connection with other devices. This can be done via USB,
Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi hotspot functionality on the mobile device.

Services Available on the Internet

The internet offers a vast array of services, covering almost every aspect of modern life. Here are some of the
most common and popular services available on the internet:

1. World Wide Web (WWW):

 The web is a vast collection of interconnected websites and webpages. It provides information,
entertainment, and services through browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.

2. Search Engines:
 Services like Google, Bing, and Yahoo allow users to search for information on the web quickly.
3. Social Media:
 Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok enable users to connect,
share content, and communicate with others globally.

4. Email Services:
 Email providers like Gmail, Yahoo Mail, and Outlook offer electronic mail services for
communication.

5. Video Streaming:
 Services like YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ allow users to stream
and watch videos, movies, and TV shows.

6. Music Streaming:
 Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Pandora provide access to a vast library of music for
streaming.

7. Online Shopping:
 E-commerce platforms such as Amazon, eBay, Alibaba, and others allow users to buy and sell
goods online.

8. Online Banking and Finance:

 Banking services, investment platforms, and financial management tools are available through
websites and mobile apps.

9. News and Media Outlets:

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  Websites of news organizations like BBC, CNN, The New York Times, and others provide news
and information globally.

10. Educational Resources:

 Platforms like Coursera, edX, Khan Academy, and others offer online courses, tutorials, and
educational content.

11. Cloud Storage:

 Services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive provide cloud-based storage solutions for
files and documents.

12. Productivity Tools:

 Online productivity tools like Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), Microsoft 365, and Slack
offer collaborative document editing, communication, and project management.

13. Teleconferencing and Video Calls:

 Services such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and Google Meet facilitate virtual meetings
and video calls.

14. Gaming:
 Online gaming platforms like Steam, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, and Epic Games Store
allow users to play and interact with others in real-time.

15. Travel and Accommodation:

 Websites and apps like Expedia, Booking.com, Airbnb, and TripAdvisor help users plan and
book travel-related services.

16. Health and Fitness Apps:

 Apps like MyFitnessPal, Fitbit, and health portals of medical institutions offer health tracking,
fitness routines, and medical information.

17. Government Services:

 Many governments provide online services for tasks such as tax filing, vehicle registration, and
obtaining official documents.

Types of Internet Protocols

Internet protocols are sets of rules and conventions that govern how data is transmitted and received over the
internet. These protocols ensure that different devices and systems can communicate with each other effectively.
Here are some of the key internet protocols:

1. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP):

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  TCP is a connection-oriented protocol that ensures reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery
of data between devices. It is widely used for applications that require accurate data delivery,
such as web browsing and email.

2. Internet Protocol (IP):

 IP is the fundamental protocol that enables data to be routed between devices on a network. It
provides the addressing and routing mechanisms necessary for data to be transmitted across the
internet. There are two main versions: IPv4 and IPv6.

3. Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP):

 HTTP is the foundation of data communication on the World Wide Web. It defines how
messages are formatted and transmitted between web browsers and web servers. The secure
version, HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure), encrypts data for added security.

4. File Transfer Protocol (FTP):

 FTP is used for transferring files between computers on a network. It defines the way files are
uploaded and downloaded from servers and is commonly used for website maintenance.

5. Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP):

 SMTP is used for sending email messages between servers. It works in conjunction with other
protocols such as POP (Post Office Protocol) and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) to
handle the sending, receiving, and storage of email.

6. Post Office Protocol (POP):

 POP is a protocol used by email clients to retrieve messages from a mail server. It allows users to
download emails to their local devices.

7. Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP):

 IMAP is another email retrieval protocol that allows users to access and manage their email
messages directly on the mail server. It is often preferred for its synchronization capabilities
across multiple devices.

8. Domain Name System (DNS):

 DNS translates human-readable domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses that
computers use to identify each other on the network. It is crucial for navigating the internet.

9. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP):

 DHCP automates the assignment of IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to
devices on a network. It simplifies the process of connecting devices to a network.

10. Secure Shell (SSH):

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  SSH is a protocol for secure remote login and other secure network services over an insecure
network. It provides encrypted communication between devices.

11. Border Gateway Protocol (BGP):

 BGP is a standardized exterior gateway protocol used to exchange routing and reachability
information among autonomous systems (ASes) on the internet.

Important components of the Web

The World Wide Web is a complex system with various components working together to enable users to access
and interact with information on the internet. Here are some important components of the web:
1. Web Browsers: Software applications like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge that allow users to access
and interact with content on the web.

2. Web Servers: Computers or software that store and serve web content to users. Web servers respond to
requests from browsers and deliver the requested web pages.

3. HTML (Hypertext Markup Language): The standard markup language for creating web pages. HTML
provides the structure and layout of content on the web.

4. CSS (Cascading Style Sheets): A style sheet language used for describing the presentation of a
document written in HTML. CSS enhances the visual presentation and formatting of web pages.

5. JavaScript: A programming language that enables interactive and dynamic behavior on web pages.
JavaScript is widely used for client-side scripting to create responsive and engaging user interfaces.

6. HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol/Secure): Protocols used for transmitting data over the
web. HTTPS adds a layer of security with encryption, ensuring secure communication between the user's
browser and the web server.

7. URL (Uniform Resource Locator): A web address that specifies the location of a resource on the
internet. URLs are used to navigate and access specific web pages.

8. Web Hosting: Services and infrastructure that store and make websites accessible on the internet. Web
hosting providers store website files, ensuring they are available for users to access.

9. Domain Name System (DNS): A system that translates human-readable domain names (e.g.,
www.example.com) into IP addresses, allowing browsers to locate and connect to web servers.

10. Web Standards: Guidelines and specifications established by organizations like the World Wide
Web Consortium (W3C) to ensure consistency and interoperability in web development.

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 11. Web Protocols: Standards and rules governing communication between different components of
the web. Examples include HTTP, HTTPS, FTP (File Transfer Protocol), and more.

12. Web Development Frameworks: Pre-built libraries and tools that simplify and expedite the
process of creating web applications. Examples include React, Angular, and Vue.js.

13. Web APIs (Application Programming Interfaces): Interfaces that allow different software
applications to communicate with each other. Web APIs enable integration between various web services
and applications.

Internet Architecture
The internet architecture, despite its immense complexity, can be understood through the analogy of a layered
cake. Each layer serves a specific purpose and builds upon the one below to create the robust and interconnected
system we know today.
1. Physical Layer:
This layer forms the very foundation, consisting of the tangible infrastructure that carries the data. It includes:
O  Cables: Fiber optic cables, the backbone of the internet, transmit data over long distances with minimal
p loss. Copper wires and wireless technologies like Wi-Fi also play a role in shorter-range connections.
e  Network devices: Routers, switches, and modems direct and manage data flow across the network. They
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p ensure data packets reach their intended destinations efficiently.
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e  Satellites: These orbit the Earth, providing internet access to remote and underserved areas.
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pi 2. Data Link Layer:
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This layer packages data into manageable units called frames, adds error-detection mechanisms, and transmits
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i them over the physical layer. Key protocols include:
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n  Ethernet: Used for wired local area networks (LANs).
in  Wi-Fi: Enables wireless connections within a LAN.
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ne  Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP): Establishes communication links over serial lines or dial-up connections.
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n Network Layer:
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e The network layer handles routing and addressing, ensuring data packets reach the correct destination across the
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ni vast internet. Protocols like:
en  Internet Protocol (IP): Assigns unique addresses to devices and networks, enabling routing.
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  Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP): Reports errors and status information back to the sender.
4. Transport Layer:
This layer manages reliable data delivery by splitting data into smaller segments, sequencing them, and ensuring
error-free transmission. Key protocols include:
 Transmission Control Protocol (TCP): Provides reliable, connection-oriented communication for
applications like email and file transfer.
 User Datagram Protocol (UDP): Offers faster, connectionless communication for applications like
streaming media and online gaming, were real-time delivery is more important than error correction.
5. Application Layer:
This top layer defines how applications interact with the internet. Familiar protocols like:
 Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP): he foundation of the World Wide Web,enabling communication
between web browsers and web servers.
 File Transfer Protocol (FTP): Transfers files between computers.
 Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP):Sends and receives emails.
Client/Server Architecture
In essence, it's a distributed application structure where tasks are divided between two types of programs:
 Clients: These are programs on your devices like web browsers, email clients, or mobile apps. They
initiate requests for resources or services.
 Servers: These are powerful computers on the network that host resources and respond to client requests.
They typically run in data centers and handle multiple clients simultaneously.
How it works
Think of it like a conversation:

i. The client initiates: You use your email app to send a message.
ii. The request travels: The app sends a message packet containing the recipient's address and your
message to the server.

iii. The server processes: The server finds the recipient's mailbox and delivers your message.
iv. The response returns: The server sends a confirmation back to your email app.
v. The client displays: Your app confirms the message was sent or displays any error messages.
Benefits:

1. Centralization: A single server that houses all of the essential data in one location makes data security
and user authorization and authentication control much easier. Any issue that arises throughout the
whole network may be resolved in a single location.

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2. Scalability: A client-server network may be expanded by adding network segments, servers, and PCs
with little downtime. Client-server networks offer scalability. The number of resources, such as clients
and servers, can be increased as needed by the user.

3. Easy Management: Clients and the server do not have to be close to access data effectively. It is really
simple to handle files because they are all kept on the same server. The finest management for tracking
and finding records of necessary files is offered in client-server networks.

4. Accessibility: The client-server system's nodes are all self-contained, requesting data only from the
server, allowing for simple upgrades, replacements, and relocation.

5. Data Security: The centralized design of a client-server network ensures that the data is properly
safeguarded. access control can be used to enforce it and ensure that only authorized users are allowed
access. Imposing credentials like a username and password is one such technique. Additionally, if the
data were to be destroyed, it would be simple to restore the files from a single backup

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