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The Story of the First Computer Networks

The Story of the First Computer Networks The modern Internet that connects billions of people around the world began as a small idea—linking computers so they could share information.  Before the Internet existed, computers were isolated machines used mainly for calculations, scientific research, or business operations.  The story of the first computer networks is the story of how these isolated systems began to communicate, laying the groundwork for a digital revolution that changed everything. 1. The World Before Networking In the 1950s and early 1960s, computers were massive machines that filled entire rooms.  They were expensive, slow, and operated by a limited number of people, mostly in government laboratories, universities, or large corporations.  Data was stored on punch cards or magnetic tapes, and transferring it meant physically moving these storage devices from one place to another. This lack of connectivity made...
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How Did the Internet Begin?

How Did the Internet Begin? The Internet — the invisible network connecting billions of people, machines, and ideas — is such an essential part of modern life that it feels timeless.  We use it to communicate, work, learn, and even relax.  Yet, behind this everyday miracle lies a fascinating story of scientific curiosity, Cold War tension, and visionary collaboration. So, how did the Internet begin?  1. The World Before the Internet Before the Internet, computers were isolated machines. In the 1950s and early 1960s, a single computer often filled an entire room and cost as much as a small building.  They were mainly used by universities, governments, and military institutions. Communication between computers was almost nonexistent — each system used its own unique programming language and hardware design. If a researcher in California wanted to share data with another in Massachusetts, they had to physically mail magnetic tapes or punch cards.  The lack of ...
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