WSAT Lesson 2 - Introduction to World Wide Web.pdf

The World Wide Web: A Digital Tapestry The World Wide Web, often simply referred to as the "WWW" or "web," is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate using the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP). It is a subset of the internet, a larger network of networks that connects billions of devices worldwide. The web has revolutionized the way we access information, communicate, and conduct business, transforming our lives in countless ways. The origins of the World Wide Web can be traced back to the early 1990s. Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist working at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, developed the concept of the web as a way to share information among researchers. In 1990, he created the first web server and web browser, laying the foundation for the internet as we know it today. One of the key features that distinguishes the web from other parts of the internet is its use of hypertext. Hypertext is text that contains links to other related information, allowing users to easily navigate from one document to another. This interconnected nature of the web has made it a powerful tool for sharing knowledge and connecting people from all over the world. The web has had a profound impact on various aspects of society. In education, it has opened up new opportunities for learning and research. Students can access a vast array of educational resources, from online courses to digital textbooks. In business, the web has transformed the way companies interact with customers and conduct their operations. E-commerce has become a major industry, with businesses selling products and services online to customers around the globe. The web has also played a crucial role in social and political movements. Social media platforms, which are built on the web, have empowered individuals to connect with others, share their ideas, and organize for social change. The Arab Spring, for example, was fueled by social media, as protesters used platforms like Facebook and Twitter to coordinate their efforts and mobilize support. However, the web is not without its challenges. One of the most significant issues is the spread of misinformation and disinformation. The vast amount of information available online can make it difficult to distinguish between credible sources and those that are unreliable. This has led to concerns about the impact of fake news on elections, public health, and other important issues. Another challenge is the digital divide. While the web has connected billions of people, there are still many who do not have access to it. This digital divide can exacerbate existing inequalities, as those who are not connected to the web may be at a disadvantage in terms of education, employment, and social participation. To address these challenges, efforts are underway to promote digital literacy and bridge the digital divide. Initiatives are being implemented to provide access to the web in underserved communi