A Calm Introduction to The Online World
2. How the Internet Actually Works - Without The Jargon
If you would like to watch the video which accompanies this lesson just click the yellow box and it will take you to YouTube so you can see the video.
If you’ve ever nodded politely while someone talks about “Wi-Fi,” “servers,” or “browsers” — but secretly thought:
“I don’t actually know what any of that means…”
You’re not alone.
This lesson is here to explain how the internet actually works — in plain English.
No jargon. No pressure. Just understanding.
So… What Is the Internet?
The internet is like a giant delivery system for information.
You ask a question →
Your device sends that question to a big network of computers →
One of them finds the answer →
…and sends it back to your screen.
It’s like posting a letter and getting a reply — only it happens in seconds, or even quicker!
Let’s Break It Down
To get online, three things are working together:
1. Your Device
Laptop, tablet, or phone — this is what you’re using to connect. It’s like your home.
2. Your Internet Connection
This could be home Wi-Fi, mobile data, or a wired connection. It’s the “road” your request travels on.
It gets your question (like a Google search) out into the world — and brings answers back.
3. Your Browser
This is the app that shows you websites.
You might use:
- Chrome
- Safari
- Firefox
- Edge
It’s like your postman — fetching the right page and bringing it to your screen.
And What Are Websites?
Websites are places on the internet.
Each has its own address (called a URL — like “bbc.co.uk” or “getonlinestepbystep.com”).
Your browser goes to that address and shows you what’s there — like a front door opening to a room full of useful things.
What Happens When I “Search”?
When you type a question into Google, here’s what happens:
- Your device sends the question to Google
- Google searches its huge library of websites
- It picks the ones that best answer your question
- It sends back a list of links
- You click one, and your browser opens the page
That whole process? It usually takes less than a second.
It’s All Happening in the Background
You don’t need to see the wires or understand the code.
You just need to know:
- You ask
- The internet answers
- Your screen shows the result
You’re already using it — this just helps you feel more aware and in control.
Your Task For Today
Just one thing:
Open your browser and type in the address of a website you’ve heard of.
It could be:
- www.bbc.co.uk
- www.nationaltrust.org.uk
- www.getonlinestepbystep.com
Type it in. Press Enter. That’s it. You’ve used the internet with purpose.
And Finally...
The internet isn’t magic. It’s a system — one you can understand, one calm step at a time.
Next up:
Lesson 3 – The Language of the Web: Clicks, Links, Tabs & Scrolling
You’re not just online now. You’re learning with intention.