2. Basics of the web and web development

Details: Category: 1. Introduction to Web Development; By Leon Bellamy; Parent Category: Computer Science

The Internet

The internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate with each other through standardized protocols. It allows for the exchange of data and provides various services, including email, file sharing, and the World Wide Web. The internet's infrastructure consists of hardware (like servers, routers, and cables) and software (protocols and applications).

Key Components:

Protocols: Rules for data transfer (e.g., TCP/IP).
IP Address: A unique identifier for each device on the internet.
Domain Names: Human-readable addresses (e.g., www.example.com).
DNS (Domain Name System): Translates domain names to IP addresses.

The World Wide Web (WWW)

The World Wide Web, often just called the web, is a system of interlinked hypertext documents and multimedia content accessed via the internet. It was invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989. The web is a subset of the internet and is accessed through web browsers.

Key Concepts:

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language): The standard language for creating web pages.
HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol/Secure): Protocols for transferring web pages.
URLs (Uniform Resource Locators): Addresses used to access web resources.
Web Servers: Computers that store and serve web content.
Web Clients (Browsers): Software that retrieves and displays web content.

Web Browsers

Web browsers are software applications used to access and navigate the web. They retrieve content from web servers and display it to users. Browsers interpret HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to present web pages.

Popular Web Browsers:

Google Chrome: Known for its speed and integration with Google services.
Mozilla Firefox: Open-source browser focused on privacy and customization.
Microsoft Edge: Successor to Internet Explorer, built on Chromium.
Safari: Default browser for Apple devices, known for efficiency and integration with macOS and iOS.
Opera: Features a built-in ad blocker and VPN for enhanced privacy.

Key Features:

Rendering Engine: Interprets HTML/CSS and displays content (e.g., Blink for Chrome, WebKit for Safari).
JavaScript Engine: Executes JavaScript code (e.g., V8 for Chrome, SpiderMonkey for Firefox).
Extensions/Add-ons: Small programs that enhance browser functionality.
Privacy and Security: Tools for protecting user data and blocking malicious content.

Summary

The internet is the vast network enabling global connectivity, while the web is a service on the internet for accessing hyperlinked documents and media. Web browsers are the tools that allow users to navigate and interact with the web, making information accessible and usable.

Leon Bellamy