Getting Online, Working Online lesson 20 Getting Online, Working Online

This lesson includes the following sections: Accessing the Internet Connecting a PC to the Internet Working on the Internet Commerce on the World Wide Web

Accessing the Internet Non-Standard Methods Common Connection Methods High-Speed Data Links

Accessing the Internet - Non-Standard Methods These methods of connecting to the Internet are not commonly used: Direct connection – connects an isolated PC directly to the Internet backbone via serial line interface protocol (SLIP) or point-to-point protocol (PPP). Remote terminal connection – allows the user to exchange commands and data in ASCII text format with a UNIX host computer. Gateway connection – connects a non-TCP/IP network to the Internet via a gateway.

Accessing the Internet - Common Connection Methods Here are some very common methods for connecting PCs to the Internet: Connection through a LAN – if a LAN uses TCP/IP, it can exchange data over the Internet without a gateway. If the LAN is connected to the Internet via a router, the connection is extended to all nodes on the network. Connection through a modem – if a stand-alone PC has access to a modem and phone line, it can connect directly or via an Internet Service Provider (ISP). ISP accounts are the most common type of connection.

Accessing the Internet - High-Speed Data Links Because modem speeds are limited to 56 Kbps, many home users and small businesses connect to the Internet via high-speed lines, such as: ISDN service can transmit data up to 128 Kbps and carries voice and data signals over a single connection. xDSL services are available in several forms with download speeds up to 52 Mbps, and also offer simultaneous voice and data transmissions. Cable modem service offers high-speed data transmission over a cable television system's existing coaxial lines.

Connecting a PC to the Internet To connect a PC to the Internet, you use applications and network connections that conform to the Winsock standard. The Winsock standard ensures that connections and applications use TCP/IP protocols and can communicate with each other. You can mix and match any Winsock application and connection and be sure they will work together.

Working on the Internet Businesses and Firewalls Intranets and Extranets Issues for Telecommuters

Working on the Internet - Businesses and Firewalls Many businesses connect their LANs to the Internet, making their data vulnerable to access by unauthorized users, such as hackers. Businesses can use a firewall to control access to their network from the Internet, by persons outside the company. A firewall gives outsiders access to public areas of a network while restricting access to protected parts of the network.

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Working on the Internet - Intranets and Extranets Many organizations are configuring their internal networks to resemble the World Wide Web, so users can navigate them with a browser. An intranet is a LAN or WAN that uses TCP/IP but is accessible only to internal users. Intranets are not connected to the Internet. An extranet is an intranet that allows outside access via the Internet. Usually, external users must log in with an ID and password.

Working on the Internet - Issues for Telecommuters A telecommuter is someone who works outside the workplace, but uses a computer and communications software to access the company's network, usually over the Internet. When accessing a corporate network online, telecommuters need to be aware of issues such as security, ownership of sensitive data, libel, and appropriate use of business resources.

Commerce on the World Wide Web The Web is a vehicle for electronic commerce (e-commerce), which simply means doing business online. For consumers, e-commerce means being able to securely shop, pay bills, and conduct other types of transactions online. For businesses, e-commerce means a new way to sell and distribute goods and services, and to expand markets beyond physical locations or geographical boundaries.

lesson 20 review Describe how to connect a computer to the Internet. Identify three kinds of high-speed data links commonly used to connect to the Internet. Describe the process of connecting a PC to the Internet through an ISP account. Explain what a firewall is, and the uses for a firewall. Define the terms intranet and extranet. Explain what is meant by e-commerce and how it affects consumers and businesses.