Your Cat Video Broken Into 1,024 Packets, Routers Argue Over Fastest Path Like Uber Drivers

The internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that enables efficient communication and supports services like email, file sharing, and internet access. It is formed by connecting multiple networks together, with each network comprising computers, wires or wireless connections, and protocols. Protocols are standardized rules for formatting and processing data, allowing devices to communicate and understand each other. When a user sends a request from their device, it is broken into small packets of data and metadata, which are routed through various networking devices such as switches, routers, and modems. These devices work together to forward the packets to their destination, passing through firewalls and load balancers along the way. The request ultimately reaches a server, which processes it and sends a response back through the same path in reverse. This complex process occurs rapidly, enabling seamless communication and information exchange over the internet.