The Internet and Intranets
Mark Norris · 2001
In this chapter we illustrate the way in which the Internet works. What we have done is to take four particular perspectives; the dial-in end-user, the directly connected user, the service provider and the global view. For each of the perspectives we have examined the network options, the hardware and software components, the motives for use and the concepts that are needed for successful exploitation. Along the way we have delved into the technology behind the Internet to explain how it all fits together and what you need to acquire or know. One thing that is very clear is that the Internet has been constructed in a very different way from the telephony network. Yet, for all the differences, many of the same ideas and technologies are evident. The main aim in explaining some of the technical detail that makes the Internet tick, has been to foster a better understanding of those instances where the same principles are applied in a different guise and those where there is genuine divergence of approach.