8.1 Introduction to PC Networking
8.1.5 The Internet
The Internet is a worldwide public network of networks, interconnecting thousands of smaller networks to form one large "web" of communication. Many private networks, some with thousands of users of their own, connect to the Internet by using the services of Internet Service Providers (ISPs). These linkages enable long distance access to network services for information and device sharing.

The Internet functions like a long distance "pipe" to facilitate exchange between geographically separated users, organizations, and branches of companies. The phrase "information superhighway" describes the benefit of the Internet to business and private communication. The Internet breaks down barriers of time and space, enabling the sharing of information around the globe almost instantaneously.