The Internet network allows all different kinds of computers to connect to each other using protocols or rules of agreement on how to communicate. TCP/IP or Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol is used. This involves packet switching. To send a message data is placed in a packet by the computer and each packet requires a source and destination address. The computers are responsible for ensuring that the packet reaches its destination.
Each server connected to the Internet has a numerical IP address which is four sets of numbers connected by a period. For example the address of a server might be 198.141.13.1. As these numbers are difficult to remember a text system was developed (called the domain name systems). They are organised this way:
fred@gm.com.au - they may be read backwards.
au stands for Australia
com indicates it is a commercial organisation
gm indicates it is General Motors
fred is associated with General Motors
It is a good idea for a business to have a domain name that reflects your business presence on the Internet - register your business name to create this identity. If you have a business that is called Waterplan register it as a domain name. Your address would therefore be lawrence@waterplan.com.au
