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

Man building Community Network

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.

A man in a black shirt sits at a table, working on a laptop.

Open Internet Standards

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

a person holding a rope

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.

Two women sit at a table while working on Internet infrastructure.

Internet Technologies

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

two men shaking hands smiling with Suriname flag in background

Multistakeholder Approach

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

two men wearing suits talking to each other

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

a view of Seoul, South Korea
Blog

Sender Pays: What Lessons European Policy Makers Should Take From The Case of South Korea

As proponents of new interconnection rules in Europe champion a new settlement regime, based on a model of “sending party …
yellow piece of paper with handwritten words "Sorry NO INTERNET Today"
Blog

Sanctions Can Deny Internet Access When People Need It Most

Political actions to prevent people in other countries from access to the Internet could set a dangerous precedent that leads …
Internet Impact Brief: European Commission Proposal to Prevent and Combat Child Sexual Abuse
Resources

Internet Impact Brief: European Commission Proposal to Prevent and Combat Child Sexual Abuse

Read how limitations on encryption arising from the CSA Proposal would move the Internet further from its potential as an …
PS179 | 19) RE: Moderación de contenidos en internet y libertad de expresión en las Américas
Resources

Internet Impact Brief: Proposals to Regulate Content Moderation on Social Media Platforms in Brazil

Read how Brazilian Bill 3227/2021 may affect the Internet by impacting what it needs to thrive as an open, globally …
Preserving an Open Internet to Achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Events

Preserving an Open Internet to Achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Together with Access Now, we hosted a side event at ECOSOC High Level Political Forum 2022. This virtual side event examined …
Impact of India’s New Cybersecurity Directions
Events

Impact of India’s New Cybersecurity Directions

India’s new cybersecurity direction, issued via its agency CERT-In, enforces some significant changes in how digital companies, big and small, …
Internet Impact Brief: India CERT-In Cybersecurity Directions 2022
Resources

Internet Impact Brief: India CERT-In Cybersecurity Directions 2022

Read how the draft regulation may affect Internet development in India, and more broadly, the health of the global Internet …
an old dusty rotary phone on a table with wires falling around it
Blog

Old Rules in New Regulations – Why “Sender Pays” Is a Direct Threat to the Internet

If we stop treating the Internet as a technology-neutral, general purpose network, we’ll lose it.  …
Internet and Geopolitics
Events

Internet and Geopolitics

Join us and learn about Splinternet and how its negative impacts can be mitigated …

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