What is the world wide web? | Year 3 Computing PDF Download

What is the world wide web?

Many individuals mistakenly use the terms "internet" and "World Wide Web" interchangeably. However, these concepts are distinct from one another.

• The internet constitutes a global network of interconnected computers.
• The World Wide Web (often abbreviated as 'www' or 'web') encompasses a vast collection of webpages accessible through this global network. Your web browser utilizes the internet to retrieve content from the World Wide Web.

Therefore, when you return home and request to use the internet, it would be more accurate to ask, "Can I browse the World Wide Web?"

How did the web begin?

• Background: In 1989, the World Wide Web was introduced by Tim Berners-Lee with a vision to facilitate easy data sharing among scientists.
• Creation of the Web: Tim Berners-Lee's creation allowed computers linked to the internet to exchange information effortlessly.
• Significance: This innovation revolutionized the way information was accessed and shared globally.
• Recognition: In 2004, Tim Berners-Lee was knighted for his remarkable contribution to the development of the internet and became Sir Tim Berners-Lee.

Tim Berners-Lee and His Contribution

• Scientific Collaboration: His primary goal was to enhance collaboration among scientists by providing a platform for sharing experimental data efficiently.
• Impact on Data Sharing: The World Wide Web enabled seamless sharing of research findings, leading to accelerated scientific progress.
• Global Recognition: His efforts were acknowledged globally, emphasizing the profound impact of his invention on society.

Importance of the World Wide Web

• Information Exchange: The web transformed how information is disseminated and accessed, making it a crucial tool for communication.
• Knowledge Sharing: It facilitated the sharing of knowledge across borders, fostering global connectivity and learning.

How Information on the Web is Accessed

• When you open a webpage, your web browser requests the page's information and displays it once received.
• The first web browser was created by Sir Tim Berners-Lee, and now there are various web browsers available.
• Examples: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, etc.

Evolution of the World Wide Web

• Initially, websites consisted of basic pages with text and images, resembling online books or magazines.
• Modern webpages include diverse content like videos, animations, quizzes, and music.
• Examples of modern content: YouTube videos, interactive quizzes, Spotify music embeds.
• New web platforms enable users to share text, videos, and images without needing personal webpages, known as Web 2.0.
• Web 2.0 facilitates widespread information sharing and collaboration on the internet.
• Example: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and collaborative platforms like Wikipedia.

How Technology Continues to Evolve

• When the internet first emerged, we accessed information on computer screens. Today, the web can be experienced not just on computers but also on various devices like tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and even smartwatches.
• These devices have evolved to not only display information but also to notify users of new updates and alerts from the web.