Internet usage is the ability of people and organizations to access the Internet with personal computer units, laptops, and various other devices; and also to access various services like the World Wide Web and email. With the expansion in Internet usage and accessibility has come an increase in Internet users, which has also resulted in significant improvements in Internet infrastructure. As a result, many people are now able to obtain high-speed Internet service delivered through cable or satellite providers.
Broadband internet usage is fast becoming the most popular form of Internet connection. This type of Internet connectivity is characterized by download speeds that are relatively fast compared to dial up and broadband connections. Downloading large files, such as music and video, can take several minutes, whereas with broadband speed this process can be completed within a few seconds. The connection speed of satellite providers is often considered to be superior to other types of broadband providers because of its higher download speed.
Instant messaging is another service that is used extensively on the Internet. Unlike regular text messaging, which can take several hours before the messages are sent, instant messaging allows one to send messages instantly. With instant messaging, one can send messages of all types, including graphics and video.
Social networking sites are widely used by internet users. Some people may be surprised to know that the most popular social networking site, Facebook, was started by college students. Social networking sites are used to share information and pictures, as well as keep in touch with friends and family. Internet users can create an online profile that includes photos; videos; links to blogs and websites; and comments. The most popular social networking sites include Friendster, Twitter, MySpace, and Flickr. Internet users can create their own profile and contact others.
Many people use the world wide web for shopping. Online shopping is becoming very popular among people who cannot physically travel to stores to purchase items they are interested in purchasing. Instead of physically going to a store, they search for the item they are looking for using the world wide web. Shopping is done through websites, called online stores, where a person can browse through an array of products and make purchases. Shopping is one of the most commonly conducted activities on the world wide web.
Although most people have heard of all of these activities, they may not realize just how much the internet usage patterns have changed over time. Most individuals are completely unaware of how much data usage is prevalent each day, even in today’s world. Unless people are paying attention to their data usage, it is highly likely that they will continue to spend more money every month on their high-speed and reliable wifi connections.
