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.

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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

ICANN agreement paves way for DNS transition
NewsPress Releases

ICANN agreement paves way for DNS transition

Reston, VA and Geneva, Switzerland – 29th September 2006 – ISOC welcomes the agreement announced today between the United States …
Alexandre Cassen and Rémi Després Recognized for Excellence in Advancing IPv6 Next-Generation Internet Protocol
NewsPress Releases

Alexandre Cassen and Rémi Després Recognized for Excellence in Advancing IPv6 Next-Generation Internet Protocol

Third Itojun Service Award presented at Internet Engineering Task Force meeting [Taipei, 16 November 2011] — The Itojun Service Award …
Internet Engineering Task Force, World’s Premier Internet Standards Development Organization, Holds Meeting in Taipei
NewsPress Releases

Internet Engineering Task Force, World’s Premier Internet Standards Development Organization, Holds Meeting in Taipei

Convenes international community of network designers, operators, vendors, and researchers Internet Protocol v6 of critical importance to the future of …
Ofcom DNSSEC deployment study 2011
Blog

OFCOM DNSSEC Deployment Study Report Provides Great Tutorial, Statistics, More

Ofcom, the UK’s communications regulator, on October 4, 2011, published the results of a survey of DNSSEC deployment within the …
Slides: How IPv6 Will Impact SIP and Telecommunications
Blog

Slides: How IPv6 Will Impact SIP and Telecommunications

How will IPv6 impact telecom?  And in particular the open standard of the SIP protocol?  Will telecommunications “just work” with …
Slides: How IPv6 Will Impact SIP and Telecommunications
Blog

Slides: How IPv6 Will Impact SIP and Telecommunications

How will IPv6 impact telecom?  And in particular the open standard of the SIP protocol?  Will telecommunications “just work” with …
DNSSEC in 6 Minutes
Resources

DNSSEC in 6 Minutes

While this tutorial dates from 2008 before the signing of top-level zones, this 6-minute presentation in PDF provides a detailed …
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Resources

Whitepaper: Preparing for DNSSEC: Best Practices, Recommendations, and Tips for Successful Implementation

In this detailed whitepaper from Cisco Systems, the authors cover the following topics: Understanding DNS Understanding DNSSEC Preparing Your Network …
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Resources

Video: Getting Started with DNSSEC

Do you think DNSSEC sounds difficult? In this 12-minute video, Wes Hardaker from the DNSSEC-Tools project shows just how easy …

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