What is the World Wide Web?

The World Wide Web (WWW or The Web) is the fastest growing Internet information system, with new resources being added daily. Many people use the terms Internet and World Wide Web interchangeably, but they are two separate but related things.

• The Web is a means of transmitting data through the Internet by using a unique language, or protocol, called HTTP.
• The Web uses browsers, such as Internet Explorer, Mozilla or Netscape, to access web pages.
• The Web allows for the integration of text, graphics, audio and video on a Web page.
• A Web page may have colorful graphics integrated with text.
• Links on a Web page may take you to other Web pages, recorded sounds, or digital video clips.

Tip: Anyone can create web pages and post information on the Web, so it's important to determine the credibility of any web sites you use.

For more information on how to create simple web pages, visit the Introduction to HTML page.

The World Wide Web was originally developed by Tim Berners-Lee, a physicist at the European Laboratory for Particle Physics (CERN,) as a means of sharing research using the Internet. The project began in 1989 and a World Wide Web prototype was developed in 1990. Little excitement was generated outside the scientific community until 1993 when the National Center for Supercomputing Applications produced Mosaic, the first "browser," that was able to display graphics and incorporate sound and video clips in its presentation of information. One individual who was instrumental in developing the Mosaic browser was Marc Andreessen. In 1994, Marc Anreessen left NCSA and joined Jim Clark in forming Netscape Communications Corporation and creating the Netscape Navigator and server software.

In past years, Internet Explorer and Netscape were the most popular browsers available, but new browsers are being created. Today, browsers such as Firefox, are becoming increasingly popular.

All browsers are often updated to take advantage of the latest technology. While not required, having the latest browser often improves your experience with web sites while old browsers will limit what you can do.

According to the December 2002 ViaWest Vibe, having a recent browser version offers many advantages:

• Better security and virus-protection features.
• They are easier to integrate with and support the latest Operating Systems.
  
• It's easier to access all the functions and capabilities of feature-rich websites.
  
• More secure online shopping.
  
• Better online form features such as auto-completion and password reminders.
  

How do I get the latest web browser?

Downloading and installing new versions are relatively simple and free. The easiest way to update your browser is retrieving it online: To keep up to date on the latest versions of browsers as well as to learn more about the different browsers available, check out the Browser Watch page.

There are many ways to navigate in a web browser:

• Use the Hyperlinks
  
• Use the Menus
  
• Use the Toolbar Buttons
  
• Use the Address Box or Location Field
  
• Use the Favorites or Bookmarks
  
• Use Keyboard Commands

Simple keyboard shortcuts can help you navigate quickly:

Ctrl + c = Copy text; highlight text to copy first.
Ctrl + v = Paste text; pastes copied text at point where cursor is.
Ctrl + f = Find in page; search for a word or phrase within a paste for quick access.
Ctrl + n = Open new window; an additional new window will open without closing the current one.
Ctrl + h = Open history; view a list of pages you have recently visited.
Alt + tab = Alternate between open windows.

Tip: For more detailed instructions for the browser you are using, read the help screens..