How the Internet Works

The Internet is a global network of networks.

The Internet is a global network of networks.

When the Internet is functioning as intended, any user can access any part of it, no matter where they are in the world. It consists of tens of thousands of interconnected networks run by service providers, companies, universities, governments, and individuals. All of these actors contribute to the continued development and adoption of Internet technologies, standards, and policies.

Open, transparent, and collaborative processes, along with decentralized ownership, make the global Internet what it is.

How the Internet Works

The Internet is a global network of networks.

A woman seated at a desk with many computer screens in the background

When the Internet is functioning as intended, any user can access any part of it, no matter where they are in the world. It consists of tens of thousands of interconnected networks run by service providers, companies, universities, governments, and individuals. All of these actors contribute to the continued development and adoption of Internet technologies, standards, and policies.

Open, transparent, and collaborative processes, along with decentralized ownership, make the global Internet what it is.

Key Links on How the Internet Works

Key Links on How the Internet Works

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Internet Way of Networking

The Internet Way of Networking is our description of the Internet’s basic architecture and practices. Learn more about its unique foundation.

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Open Internet Standards

The Internet is fundamentally based on voluntary, open standards. They are key to allowing devices, services, and applications to interconnect.

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Measuring the Internet

We need accurate and consistent data and analysis to understand how the Internet is performing and evolving. Internet Society Pulse consolidates trusted, third-party Internet data into a single website.

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Internet Technologies

Internet technologies are continually evolving to provide faster and more secure online experiences.

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Multistakeholder Approach

The multistakeholder approach to Internet governance has grown from the Internet’s own DNA and is what allows it to thrive.

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History of the Internet

The Internet has revolutionized technology and communications. Read more about its journey to become the beneficial tool we know today.

Who Runs the Internet

Who Runs the Internet

The Internet is a global resource. Every day, decisions about it impact who gets to use it where, how, and at what cost.

Running the Internet with input and representation from multiple parties ensures that the Internet remains a tool that favors no one group and allows for permissionless innovation.

Learn More

Latest Updates

Latest Updates

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Blog

We Testified Because the Internet Needs a Voice

We testified in front of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law in support of …
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Blog

Misguided Policies the World over Are Slowly Killing the Open Internet

We must defend the Internet whenever there are threats, whether they come from a country, a corporation, or a misguided …
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Blog

In One Corner, Large Telecom Operators. In the Other, Everybody Else.

We encourage everyone interested in defending an open Internet to contribute to the European Commission’s public consultation on the potential …
Internet Impact Brief: How Canada’s Online News Act Will Harm the Internet, Restricting Innovation, Security, and Growth of the Digital Economy
Resources

Internet Impact Brief: How Canada’s Online News Act Will Harm the Internet, Restricting Innovation, Security, and Growth of the Digital Economy

Read how Canada’s Online News Act contributes to fragmentation by undermining encryption and splintering the relationship and experiences of people …
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Resources

Global Internet Report

Our Global Internet Reports are developed to bring significant features of the Internet’s evolution to the attention of the global …
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Blog

Brussels Workshop: Learning How the Internet Society Works to Stop Damaging Proposals

Brussels Internet governance workshop gives voice to critical stakeholders …
Navigating Digital Sovereignty and Its Impact on the Internet
Resources

Navigating Digital Sovereignty and Its Impact on the Internet

Dive into a study and learn about Digital Sovereignty and its Impact on the Internet around the world …
Internet Impact Brief: How the US EARN IT Act Threatens Security, Confidentiality, and Safety Online
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Internet Impact Brief: How the US EARN IT Act Threatens Security, Confidentiality, and Safety Online

Read how the US EARN IT Act poses an existential threat to the Internet safety and security by preventing service …
Internet Impact Brief: Draft Indian Telecommunication Bill 2022
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Internet Impact Brief: Draft Indian Telecommunication Bill 2022

Read how the draft telecommunication bill may affect Internet-based services in India, and more broadly, the health of the global …

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© Nyani Quarmyne, © Atul Loke/Panos Pictures, © Stonehouse Photographic, © Nyani Quarmyne, © Elyse Butler, © Randy Berghout, © Internet Society