The Internet

The Internet is the largest network in the world. Developed over 20 years ago as a US Defense Department network called ARPAnet, the Internet has grown to include other networks located around the world. The Internet was originally built primarily on UNIX systems, and has since diversified to include a variety of operating systems.

Services that run over the Internet include e-mail, file transfer between systems (FTP), remote use of systems (telnet), and the World Wide Web.

Organizations can use Web technologies and the Internet to make key information available to a worldwide audience of millions of people. It is an effective and inexpensive way to distribute information such as newsletters, financial reports, marketing information, and other important documents. These can be available 24 hours a day, and can easily be kept up-to-date. Because customers or clients download this information directly onto their own computers, printing, mailing, and distribution costs are reduced while service and response time are improved.

The Internet can be used as a tool to sell and market products and services. Organizations can leverage the Internet to provide valuable marketing and sales information to their traditional customers while expanding their reach into new markets. Customers can purchase product 24 hours a day at their own convenience, and the automated tasks of ordering products electronically can streamline the sales process, resulting in a higher level of customer satisfaction.

Providing your organization with access to Internet resources can enhance productivity. The Internet provides the largest library of useful information in the world. Employees can use the Internet to access a wealth of up-to-date information, including newsletters, reports, and online databases. For more information on setting up Internet access, see Chapter 26, ``Configuring Internet services'' in the SCO OpenServer Handbook.