The internet is a network of millions of computers around the world connected to each other via phone lines, satellites, and cables. It gives you access to a huge range of information and services, and is growing all the time. The internet is for everybody, and there are no restrictions on who can use it. All someone needs to access it is a computer, mobile phone or tablet, and a data connection.

There are millions and millions of computers in the world. Some are even built into phones — like yours. The internet allows computers to “talk” to one another by connecting them within a network. This makes it possible for computers to send information from one place to another in seconds, even if those places are on opposite sides of the world. That means that someone in China can use the internet to send someone in Brazil a picture without having to wait weeks for international mail to deliver it! It’s truly a life-changing invention.

Pro Tip: Here’s some internet lingo for you. When something or someone is using the internet, they’re considered to be “online.” For example, you could say “I’m online” if you were using the internet on your phone. You could also say “I’m talking to my friend online,” or “I’m using an online store to shop.” Then when you stop using the internet, you could say, “I’m offline.”