Compaq 233789-371 manual Basic Concepts, What Is the Internet?, What Is a Hyperlink?

Basic Concepts

Internet, Web, URL, hyperlinks, cyberspace— sound confusing?

The Internet definitely has its own terminology. Take a few moments to understand some basic concepts that will help you start surfing the Web.

To begin surfing, you need to establish an Internet Service Provider (ISP) account.

See also ...

Refer to the “Setting Up Your Computer” chapter in this guide for information on how to register for an ISP account.

What Is the Internet?

The Internet is a network of computers connected using standard telephone lines. The Internet is worldwide, like the telephone system.

The Internet stores and transmits documents, pictures, music, and movies provided by computer users from all over the world.

When information on a particular topic, or related topics, is gathered in one location on the Internet, that’s called a Web site.

What Is a Hyperlink?

Imagine you're reading a newspaper. As you read page 1, it says something like “For more details, see page 3, column 2.”

Hyperlinks in a Web site work the same way. Use the mouse to click a hyperlink and you can move instantly from page to page, Web site to Web site. Linking files together is what gives the Web its name, weaving and connecting idea to idea, all over the world.

5-2 WELCOME TO THE WEB MY PRESARIO—GETTING STARTED