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

Emerging Digital Technologies and Their Impact on Policy and Regulation in the Middle East and North Africa
Resources

Emerging Digital Technologies and Their Impact on Policy and Regulation in the Middle East and North Africa

This report examines the impact of current and proposed policies and regulations on emerging technologies in the Middle East and …
A map of the world showing main submarine cables. Source: TeleGeography.
Policy BriefsResources

Policy Brief: Enhancing the Resilience of Submarine Internet Infrastructure

This document presents a forward-looking and optimistic approach to enhancing Internet resilience through practical and policy-driven solutions …
Mandated DNS Blocking: Critical Considerations
Resources

Mandated DNS Blocking: Critical Considerations

Mandated DNS blocking is the wrong tool for public policy enforcement. The DNS exists to make the Internet usable, not …
David Clark in an office
BlogStories

2025 Postel Awardee David Clark, an Architect and Implementer of the Internet

We are proud to announce David Clark as the winner of the 2025 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award! This award …
Policy Brief: Open Internet Standards
Policy BriefsResources

Policy Brief: Open Internet Standards

By actively promoting and formally recognizing open standards in public policy, we can protect the building blocks that enable interoperability, …
A tower of building blocks with critical pieces missing from bottom row.
BlogStories

Your Internet Access Is at Risk. We’re Speaking Up

The US Supreme Court will soon consider a case that could fundamentally change how you access the Internet and affect …
Policy Brief: Perspectives on Internet Content Blocking
Policy BriefsResources

Policy Brief: Perspectives on Internet Content Blocking

The Internet Society encourages policymakers to prioritize solutions that tackle harmful content at its source, rather than relying on blunt …
A white crustacean on the sand underwater
BlogStories

The Internet of Wonder: How a Scientific Livestream Became a Cultural Phenomenon

A scientific expedition in Argentina is becoming a cultural phenomenon thanks to the Internet, pulling in thousands of livestream viewers …
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Stories

Beekeepers in Rural Zimbabwe Embrace Technology to Unlock Progress

Our Zimbabwe Chapter is supporting beekeepers in Marondera with skills training, hive sensors, and a user-friendly mobile app.By enabling beekeepers …

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