Understanding the Internet: Pros and Cons
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ScribdTranslationsUnderstanding the Internet: Pros and Cons
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ScribdTranslationsWhat is the internet in general?
The internet is a global system made up of a set of interconnected networks at scale.
worldwide 'network of networks'. These networks all follow the same set of rules,
called Internet Protocol (IP) which allows them to exchange with each other and transfer data
among the devices that are connected to it, instantly and seamlessly.
With technological progress, access to the internet is possible through various devices.
electronics: tablets, smartphones, TVs, tablets, etc.
The advantages of the internet
The Web
A collection of web pages that are displayed via a web browser on different devices,
allowing internet users to showcase and search for information, news, answers,
photos, videos and other interactive content.
The Messaging
Instant messaging, email, or videoconferencing services are now
possible in several formats: sound, text, image, video or voice message. These services
allow to shorten distances, revolutionize communication and facilitate the
exchanges anywhere and at any time.
Social Networks
Websites and applications that allow people to share documents, photos
and videos while offering private or group messaging services which promotes the
collaboration, information sharing, interaction, the emergence of digital communities
and a unique entertainment space.
Online games
Games that allow people to play with each other over the Internet.
Online platforms
Thanks to the connectivity of these platforms, the internet allows for several operations.
such as online shopping, hotel booking during a stay, remote work, e-
learning and many others.
Searching for information and knowledge
Once upon a time, students used library card catalogs.
encyclopedias and magazines to find information for their research and
projects.
Provide the opportunity for distance training
Another positive effect of the Internet in education is distance or online learning.
With this tool, students can take short or long duration courses with the
online course materials available. One of the advantages of online learning is that the
people from anywhere in the world can acquire knowledge about different
subjects, complete courses, thanks to online learning.
The disadvantages of the internet
False Information
With the speed of transmission and propagation of information, the internet is a
very fertile environment for misinformation (fake news). Indeed, the content on
the internet does not necessarily reveal the reality. It can be personal opinions, theories
unverified, distorted information and also hate or violent content linked by
malicious individuals.
Spam and Malware
Moreover, on the internet, spam and malware continue to grow, we are
all bombarded by unsolicited emails, whether advertising or not, that are increasingly overwhelming
in addition to our email inboxes and our social networks. Moreover, the development
communities and activities of hacking and virus creation continue to harm
the experience of internet users on the internet.
The dangers of the internet
Risk of addiction
Adults, young people, and especially children have become very attached. Many people
today cannot go without the internet even for a few minutes without losing it
a lot of time and money doing nothing in front of screens connected to the internet. The
people are more addicted which can have detrimental repercussions on their health later on
psychologiques
Scammers everywhere
By offering particularly interesting deals, such as free access to
platforms or money making. Several people have been victims of scammers, who
promise something in return for what they are looking for and deceive them by their
making them lose money or getting them involved in illegal activities. Furthermore,
multiple attacks and theft of payment card identifiers, personal information
and private events occurred. Without caution, a person risks losing everything with a simple click on
an unknown link.
The dangers of the internet for young people
Online games are certainly a very fun and interactive entertainment tool, but they
present a great danger to young people. These games can easily become a
addiction and young people will become dependent on it. They not only lose their time, but also
money since some games have become paid. Young addicts to video games
sont susceptibles d’être en désocialisation ce qui peut conduire aux dépressions et d’autres
psychological problems.
The dangers of the internet explained to students
As a student, you can be a victim of cyberbullying, which involves insults and
rumors that can easily harm your mental health and put pressure on you
psychological abuses committed by ill-intentioned individuals, both minors and
serious (sexual harassment, incitement to suicide, ...).
How to Protect Yourself on the Internet?
By reading the disadvantages and dangers of the internet mentioned above, you
probably asking if we should stop using the internet! The answer is no, of course!
However, you absolutely need to protect yourself!
We list a few golden rules and habits to adopt from now on, if you haven't already.
the case.
Responsible Use
The degree of responsibility and awareness is the basis for optimal protection on the internet.
For example:
Be aware of the nature of the site you are visiting;
Carefully check the sender of an email before clicking on the links within it;
Be sure of the sites that ask you for your personal data, especially your data
banking.
In a single word: be aware when you visit a site or want to click on a link.
Having an Antivirus
Make sure that your computer has antivirus software. For example, if you have Windows.
10, you already have Windows Security installed.
Why have an antivirus? It's simple, without antivirus protection, your computer is
exposed to pirates who will do everything to harm you: damage your files, steal
your personal data, steal your photos, images, etc.
Having a VPN
A VPN, acronym for Virtual Private Network, is mainly used to
hide our activities on the internet. The VPN ensures our anonymity on the internet and allows us
therefore to navigate safely.
Conclusion
The internet is an invention that has transformed our lives and modes of communication. With a
infinite panel of facilities, the internet offers various advantages for people and students in
particular. However, the internet is also a world full of traps, where one must be
prudent, responsible and very aware.