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.

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.

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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

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 …
The White House in Washington DC
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 …
Photograph of multiple padlocks locked onto a grid fence
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 …
a photo of a field with mountains in the background in Montana
Blog

Montana’s TikTok Ban: Breaking the Internet and Undermining Online Privacy 

Update as of 25 February 2026: TikTok and the Montana State Attorney General’s Office agreed to request that the court …
Two men wiring a power inverter to solar panels amid green mountains.
Blog

The Internet and Climate Change

As we celebrate Earth Day 2024, the world seems to be on fire. Quite literally with some regions battling extreme …
Wires connecting to each other in a web
Blog

The US FCC Signals a Dangerous New Course on BGP Security

The US Federal Communications Commission recently released a draft Declaratory Ruling and Order in the Open Internet Proceeding. However, there …
The Canadian Parliament building at the top of a forested hill.
Blog

What Governments Can Learn from Canada when Regulating Online Harms

Canada’s Online Harms Act should be an example of how to protect the fundamentals of the Internet while improving online …
Internet Impact Brief: Nepal’s Proposed National Internet Gateway
Resources

Internet Impact Brief: Nepal’s Proposed National Internet Gateway

Learn about the implications of Nepal’s National Internet Gateway proposal on Internet access and security …

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