<p> Using the Internet</p><p>We live in an information-rich society in which we are connected by a network of computers to other networks all over the world. We send information between computers from our homes, schools, and businesses. This global Internet enables us to communicate with others around the world and provides access to tremendous resources. In order to access this information, however, we need a way to locate it. This document addresses the following topics:</p><p>Internet Protocol Domain Names Problems</p><p>Internet Protocol Every computer connected to the Internet is identified by an Internet Protocol (IP) address. An IP address is the numeric address the Internet needs to send electronic-mail and other data between computers. An Internet Protocol address contains four numbers joined by periods. Each connected computer receives a unique Internet Protocol address from the Network Information Center (NIC) so that information can be forwarded to the correct computer.</p><p>Domain Names We use domain names to reach desired sites quickly without memorizing Internet</p><p>Protocol addresses. Domain names, like Internet Protocol addresses, must be unique so that information can reach the desired computer. If two sites had the same domain name, computers routing information through the Internet would not know where to send the messages.</p><p>A domain name works like an address to a home. If someone needs to send mail to your home, you inform that person of your address, including your street, city, state, and ZIP Code. The post office delivers your mail by following this structure. A domain name follows a similar structure. A domain name is divided up into three sections: [email protected]. User is typically the person’s account name on the system.</p><p>The name of a system or location, and the type of organization is indicated by the somewhere.domain. You should always inform others of your complete electronic-mail address to ensure delivery.</p><p>The trailing domain is a way of dividing the Internet into understandable groups.</p><p>It is often one of the following: </p><p>.edu uvsc.edu Educational institutions .org amhrt.org Non-profit organizations .com microsoft.com Commercial businesses .net earthlink.net Network service providers .gov whitehouse.gov U.S. government agencies .mil af.mil U.S. military</p><p>Problems The domain naming system enables people to register any name not currently used even if the new name leads to confusion. Sometimes people or organizations may want the same name or use a misleading name to disguise the nature of their Web site.</p><p>Network Solutions, Inc. (NSI) is responsible for registering all top-level domains in the United States. It shares information with other registration centers, but it does not conduct foreign searches for conflicting or confusing names. Trademark-infringement complaints may be lodged with the NSI. </p>