Here's a breakdown of who plays a role in keeping the internet running:
* Internet Service Providers (ISPs): These companies (like Comcast, Verizon, AT&T) provide physical access to the internet. They control the infrastructure that connects your home or business to the internet backbone.
* Network Operators: These companies maintain the massive network of cables, routers, and switches that form the internet backbone.
* Domain Name System (DNS): This system translates human-readable website names (like "google.com") into numerical addresses (like 172.217.160.142) that computers use to find websites. DNS is managed by numerous organizations, including ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers).
* Protocol Standards Bodies: Organizations like the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) develop the technical standards that define how the internet works.
* Content Providers: These are the companies that create and host websites, apps, and online services (like Google, Facebook, Amazon).
Key Points:
* No single entity controls the internet: It's a distributed network with various actors playing different roles.
* Control is shared: ISPs, network operators, DNS providers, and protocol standards bodies all contribute to its functionality.
* Openness and collaboration are key: The internet thrives on collaboration and the open sharing of information and technology.
The internet is constantly evolving: New technologies and business models continue to shape the internet landscape. It's a dynamic system with no single entity holding absolute control.