Internet

An international network of computers connected by modems, dedicated lines, telephone cables, and satellite links, with associated software controlling the movement of data. It offers facilities for accessing remote databases, transfer of data between computers, and e-mail. In addition, there are high-level services, the most important of these being the World Wide Web, a multimedia facility allowing pictures, sound, and video to be displayed. A particular feature of the Web is the use of hyperlinks between pages and documents. The wider availability of personal computers has led to an enormous growth in the number of Internet users. This has resulted in increasing commercial exploitation in such areas as electronic shopping, home banking, advertising, and marketing research. Most businesses now have their own websites and companies are increasingly using the Internet to publish their annual accounts and other financial information. It is also possible for individuals and companies to file their tax returns on line.

See also: information technology