Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science

What comprises the Internet?

1. A single centralized server

2. A network of connected devices worldwide

3. Exclusive cables and hardware

4. A series of proprietary networks

The correct answer is: A network of connected devices worldwide

The Internet is best described as a network of connected devices worldwide. This encompasses a vast infrastructure that links countless computers, servers, smartphones, and other devices across different geographic locations and networks. It is decentralized, meaning there is no single server or entity that controls it; instead, it consists of millions of private, public, academic, and governmental networks interconnected by various technologies, protocols, and agreements. Understanding this definition is essential, as it highlights the collaborative nature of the Internet, where diverse systems and organizations contribute to a global network, enabling communication, information sharing, and interaction across borders. This interconnectedness is what allows millions of users to access and share resources, the essence of what the Internet provides.