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.

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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

The Open Fibre Data Standard

The Open Fibre Data Standard (OFDS) is an open data, open standards initiative supported by the Internet Society.   …
Internet Impact Brief: Proposals to Regulate Digital Platforms In Brazil, Potential Impacts in the Internet
Resources

Internet Impact Brief: Proposals to Regulate Digital Platforms In Brazil, Potential Impacts in the Internet

This Internet Impact Brief analyzes Bill 2630/2020 to examine how this Brazilian legislative proposal may affect the Internet in its …
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Resources

The Internet’s Five Critical Properties

The critical properties are the core characteristics that make the Internet unique as a network. Learn more about them …
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Resources

About the Internet Way of Networking

The Internet provides the foundation for most of our digital lives. Learn how the Internet Society defines a healthy Internet.  …
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Resources

The Four Goals of a Healthy Internet

Discover the Internet Goals and Enablers—principles guiding a healthy, inclusive Internet. Learn how policies and decisions can support or hinder …
DNS Security and Resilience
Events

DNS Security and Resilience

Hear from leading Internet governance experts as they tackle the most pressing security challenges of our time and engage in …
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Blog

US Government Networks Get a Security Boost: White House Roadmap Tackles Routing Vulnerabilities

The White House’s Roadmap to Enhancing Routing Security is an important step toward strengthening routing security in the United States …
IETF 119 Policy Roundtable
Resources

IETF 119 Policy Roundtable

On 18 April 2024, the Internet Society in collaboration with the IAB held a roundtable with policy makers and selected …
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Blog

The US Makes a Big Step Toward Better Routing Security

The US Department of Commerce began implementing better routing security practices—a step in the right direction for wider MANRS adoption …

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