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How Does The Internet Work?
Oct 14, 2026 1:44 PM

  

How Does The Internet Work?1

  Screen with HTTP protocol The Internet is the product of multiple connected computer networks. (more) How Does The Internet Work? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/technology/How-Does-The-Internet-Work Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

  External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written and fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Apr 8, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot With its flexible architecture and far reach, the Internet allows various computer networks to seamlessly connect using what is known as the Internet protocol suite. The open architecture plan was a key factor in the Internet’s development, as it allows many diverse networks to be integrated through standardized interfaces and gateways. Protocols are the rules that govern how data is transmitted over the Internet. The Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP) are the foundation of the Internet and are collectively known as the Internet protocol suite (TCP/IP). TCP is responsible for breaking down data into packets, which are ...(100 of 284 words)

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