What is a URL?

The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) identifies a file location, typically in the form

http://www.name.extension

The URL contains the protocol and the pathway to a site and may include the path to a specific file within that site. Each period, or dot, in the URL separates elements within the address. For example, you will see the URL extension .com used by companies.

When you enter the URL into your browser Address box and press the Enter key on your keyboard, the browser contacts that location and displays the Web page for you.

What is an e-mail address?

Your e-mail address identifies the electronic post office box where people can send you electronic mail. E-mail addresses have the form

name@domain_name

The domain name is usually the name of the ISP or organization, and includes an extension identifying the kind of organization the ISP is.

For example, if your name is Jane Jones and XYZ is your ISP, your e-mail address might be

JaneJones@xyz.com

with the extension .com indicating that XYZ is a business. For information on using e-mail, see “Sending and Receiving E-Mail” on page 54.

Internet

Quick Start Guide 43