WWW, commonly known as the World Wide Web, is a global system of interconnected computer networks that allows users to access and share information through hypertext documents. It's essentially a vast collection of websites, accessible via the internet using a web browser. Think of it as a giant library where each website is a book, and links act as pathways between them. You access this library using the internet.
Understanding the WWW
- Hypertext-based: The WWW uses hypertext, meaning documents containing links ("hyperlinks") to other documents. These links make navigation easy and allow users to jump between related information quickly. The reference material states that WWW is "a hypertext-based information system."
- Accessible via Internet: To access the WWW, you need to be connected to the internet using a device with a web browser (like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari). As stated in one of the provided sources, "You must be on the international TCP/IP network (the Internet) in order to use a client on your computer to access WWW."
- Global System: Websites and servers that host web pages are located across the globe, forming a huge, interconnected network. The term "World Wide Web" itself highlights its global reach.
- Collection of Websites: The WWW is the sum total of all the websites and online resources available, representing a vast repository of information, services, and communication channels. GeeksforGeeks defines WWW as "the collection of different websites around the world, containing different information shared via local servers (or computers)."
- First Web Page: The very first web page, located at
http://info.cern.ch/hypertext/WWW/TheProject.html, provided information about the project itself, showcasing the early functionality of hyperlinking and information access.
Examples of WWW Usage
- Reading news articles online: Accessing websites like the New York Times or BBC News.
- Shopping online: Browsing and purchasing products from e-commerce sites like Amazon or eBay.
- Social media: Using platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
- Watching videos: Streaming content on YouTube or Netflix.
