“Internet usage expanded to over 5 billion users worldwide as of January 2023, reflecting continued rapid adoption according to DataReportal [1]. The online education and e-learning market size is expected to reach $457 billion globally in 2023 based on a annual growth rate of 16% from 2022 industry revenues [2].”

“North America retains the greatest market share of digital learning sales with 33% in early 2023 projections. But Asia-Pacific continues to demonstrate fast growth at 19% CAGR due to increasing internet connectivity enabling e-learning at scale [3].”

In today’s increasingly digital world, the ability to navigate the internet effectively is essential. The internet has become an indispensable tool for communication, information access, and personal and professional development. However, for those unfamiliar with the digital landscape, the vastness of the internet can be daunting.

Internet training aims to bridge this gap by equipping individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to confidently and safely navigate the online world. It encompasses a wide range of topics, from basic internet usage and online safety to more advanced skills such as email etiquette, web browsing techniques, and online research strategies.

For beginners, internet training provides a structured and supportive environment to gain the necessary skills and confidence. It empowers individuals to harness the power of the internet to enhance their daily lives, expand their knowledge, and connect with others worldwide.

Whether you are a student seeking to expand your research capabilities, a job seeker looking to improve your online presence, or simply an individual seeking to stay connected with friends and family, internet training offers a valuable pathway to becoming a proficient and responsible internet user.

Table of Contents

Thinking it’s too late to go online? It’s never too late to start. It might seem discouraging to start now, since almost everything has gone digital already, and it feels like you’ve missed the opportunity. But this is where internet training can help.

The Internet is technically a relatively new invention (i.e. you are not too late to the trend). The first thing you need to do is get to grips with the terminology which is used in the online world. Which is why we’ve prepared a glossary of terms that should be a starting point to any Internet newbie. So, let’s get going!

Someone sitting at a desk on a computer
It’s important to understand key internet terms these days for internet training.

Internet Training: What is the Internet?

The internet is a vast network of computers connected to each other through a global network of cables. These computers can communicate with each other and each one has a specific series of numbers called an IP address for identification.

No single organisation owns or controls the internet. Every device linked to that network “becomes” the internet. This gigantic network has one job: to move computerised information from one place to another.

This computerised information could be anything — letters, audio, video, and much much more.

All information is handled equally and passed on exactly the same way. This gives the Internet huge potential as people can share any sort of information, so there are endless possibilities.

The World Wide Web

The “Web” is used interchangeably with the “Internet”. However, they are not exactly the same. While the Internet is a global system of interconnected computers, the web is a global collection of documents and resources.

That means, the Internet is a way to transport information, and the web is the software that allows the usage of this information. The web is a service of the Internet, but it is not all of it.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

To get connected to this huge network of computers, you need an Internet Service Provider. This is more frequently referred to as an ISP. It’s exactly like the mobile network carrier. An ISP could be a company or a governmental organization that plugs you into the Internet.

You will pay a monthly fee to subscribe to a service provider. The fees vary according to the Internet package you pick. Internet packages have different speeds and different capacities for data transfer.

Data-heavy users who stream movies and games often go for the more expensive ones. For beginners, who will most likely use it for email and light web surfing, we recommend the less expensive packages.

Internet Training – Routers: The Gateway to the Internet

A router is a small electronic device that joins multiple computer networks together. Routers can be wired, wireless, or both. Its function is to regulate the network signals arriving at your home or business.

Routes send signals between connected computers or devices. A router also acts as a line of defence for your device against external attacks.

In addition, the router also directs the signals to the specific device connected to it only, or else, the whole building would be able to use the Internet service you are paying for. The neighbours would thank you, but your wallet would not.

Function of Routers

Routers perform several essential functions:

  • Data Routing: Routers analyse data packets and determine the best path for each packet to reach its destination.
  • Network Traffic Management: Routers manage network traffic, ensuring that data flows smoothly and preventing congestion.
  • Security: Routers incorporate security features, such as firewalls, to protect networks from unauthorized access and cyberattacks.

Types of Routers

Routers come in various types, each suited for different needs:

  • Wireless Routers: Wireless routers provide internet connectivity to devices using Wi-Fi technology.
  • Wired Routers: Wired routers connect devices to the internet via Ethernet cables.
  • Dual-band Routers: Dual-band routers support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi frequencies, offering faster data transfer rates.

Webpages

Think of the webpage as a page in a magazine. Each page has a different topic, and the content could be just about anything. It could be scientific, political, entertaining, educational, etc. Just like magazine pages, webpages include text and images.

However, webpages also include audio, video, animation, 360 degree images. Web designers try their best to make webpages as attractive as possible using fonts and colour schemes. Of course, all these webpages are part of the World Wide Web.

The web includes billions of these pages.

Internet Training: What is a Website?

A website is like the magazine that includes all those pages. There is an endless number of magazines, and each magazine has a main theme and a number of pages. That’s the same case with a website. A website is a collection of webpages grouped under one name.

Each name represents an entity. This can be a government, an organization, a business, or even a person.

Websites aim to attract more viewers so they can spread awareness and host more advertisers. The best websites are those who create the most valuable content and have the highest number of visitors.

Conquer the Digital World: Your Beginner’s Bootcamp to Internet Mastery

Ready to unlock the vast potential of the internet? This beginner’s bootcamp is your passport to navigating the online world with confidence and ease. We’ll equip you with essential skills, safety tips, and research know-how to make the most of your digital journey.

1. Basic Internet Usage:

  • Web Browsing Like a Pro: Learn how to navigate the web like a seasoned explorer. Master the address bar, search bar, and tabs to find exactly what you’re looking for. Bookmark your favorite sites, save web pages for offline reading, and discover the diverse landscapes of the internet, from news and shopping to social media and beyond.
  • Email Etiquette: The Art of Communication: Craft emails that impress! Learn how to write clear, concise, and professional emails, from proper formatting and addressing to avoiding spammy content. Discover the power of attachments and master the art of sending and receiving files like a digital pro.
  • File Management: Organize Your Digital Life: Taming the chaos of files is easier than you think! Learn how to create, rename, and delete files and folders, navigate different file formats, and organize your digital world like a champion. Back up your precious data and discover the secrets of efficient file management.
  • Online Payments: Secure Transactions Simplified: Shopping online? Paying bills? No sweat! Demystify the world of online payments with this guide to different methods like credit cards, debit cards, and e-wallets. Learn how to identify secure websites, avoid scams, and shop safely online. Explore the convenience of online banking and bill payments.

2. Staying Safe Online: Your Digital Shield:

  • Phishing Scams: Don’t Get Hooked! Learn how to recognize and avoid those pesky phishing scams. Understand how they work, identify suspicious emails and websites, and never click on a link you’re unsure about. Protect your personal information and keep your digital life safe from harm.
  • Malware Threats: The Digital Boogeyman: Don’t be afraid of the dark! Learn about different types of malware like viruses, worms, and spyware, and how they can harm your computer and data. Discover the power of antivirus and anti-malware software, and practice safe downloading and installation habits to keep your digital fortress secure.
  • Password Security: Your Digital Fortress: Strong passwords are your first line of defense! Learn how to create secure passwords that are impossible to crack. Avoid common mistakes like using personal information or dictionary words, and embrace the power of password managers and two-factor authentication to add extra layers of protection to your online accounts.
  • Responsible Social Media: Be a Digital Citizen: Connect, share, and express yourself responsibly on social media. Understand the importance of online privacy, respectful behavior, and cyberbullying prevention. Learn how to manage your privacy settings, create secure profiles, and navigate the social media landscape with grace and awareness.

A List of Actionable Tips for Responsible Social Media Use

Remember, social media is a powerful tool for connection and expression, but with great power comes great responsibility. Here are some tips to navigate the social media landscape like a responsible and respectful digital citizen:

Think before you post:

  • Pause and reflect: Consider the potential impact of your post before hitting “share.” Would you say it in person?
  • Fact-check information: Don’t share unverified news or rumors. Be a source of truth, not misinformation.
  • Respectful communication: Treat others with kindness and avoid negative or hateful language. Remember, there’s a person behind every screen.
  • Privacy awareness: Adjust your privacy settings to control who sees your information and posts.
  • Think globally, act locally: Consider how your words and actions might affect others across cultures and communities.

Curate your content wisely:

  • Be mindful of what you share: Think twice before posting personal information, sensitive photos, or controversial content.
  • Quality over quantity: Share meaningful content that adds value to others’ feeds, not just random updates.
  • Support others: Like, comment, and share positive content that inspires and uplifts others.
  • Take a break: Disconnect from social media regularly to recharge and avoid cyber fatigue. Engage in real-life interactions and activities.
  • Know your audience: Adapt your content and tone depending on the platform and who you’re connecting with.

Embrace a positive mindset:

  • Challenge negativity: Counter harmful content with positive messages and promote respectful online discussions.
  • Be an advocate for good: Use your voice to raise awareness about important issues and support causes you care about.
  • Spread kindness: Leave encouraging comments, celebrate others’ successes, and offer virtual support when needed.
  • Report violations: Don’t hesitate to report abusive behavior, hate speech, or harmful content to maintain a healthy online environment.
  • Lead by example: Be the change you want to see in the digital world. Show others how to use social media responsibly and compassionately.

3. Essential Research Skills: Be a Digital Detective:

  • Evaluating Online Sources: Fact from Fiction: Not everything you read online is true! Learn how to evaluate online sources and identify credible websites. Check the author, publication date, and website URL, and use website verification tools to separate the wheat from the chaff.
  • Identifying Credible Websites: Spot the Real Deal: Look beyond the surface! Learn about website features that indicate credibility, like clear contact information, editorial reviews, and up-to-date content. Be wary of unprofessional design, outdated information, and biased content.
  • Conducting Effective Keyword Searches: Find Your Treasure: Unearth the hidden gems of the internet with effective keyword searches. Learn how to use specific and relevant keywords, refine your searches with Boolean operators and filters, and discover the power of effective keyword research for finding the information you need.

Domain Names and URLs

The content of a website is stored on special computers. Do you remember when we said that each computer connected to the Internet has an identification number called an IP address?

For a visitor to connect to a website, they need to know the IP address of the computer where the content is stored. However, for the regular visitor, an IP address is too hard to remember; it is a series of numbers.

To solve that problem, we needed domain names. A domain name is an easy-to-remember address to identify the computer you wish to connect with. Surely, it is much easier to remember “www.profiletree.com” than 123.456.789.1.

Domain names are translated into IP addresses. To connect to any website, all you need to do is type its domain name, and click “enter.” On a side note, “domain name,” “web address,” and “URL” are all basically used interchangeably.

HTML

HTML is the language that webpages are written in. It stands for Hypertext Markup Language. Computers do not understand human language, so programmers give orders to computers in the language that they understand: code. HTML is a type of code commonly used for building webpages.

Web Browsers: Navigating the World Wide Web with Ease

A browser is a software tool that allows you to access the World Wide Web. It is the gateway to the web. That’s why all computers and mobile devices include a free browser at the time of purchase.

Role of Web Browsers

Web browsers play a crucial role in internet usage:

  • Web Page Rendering: Web browsers interpret HTML code and display it as web pages, including text, images, and multimedia content.
  • Hyperlink Navigation: Web browsers allow users to follow hyperlinks, enabling seamless movement between web pages.
  • Website Interaction: Web browsers facilitate user interaction with websites, enabling the submission of forms, online transactions, and access to web applications.

Variety of Web Browsers

Several popular web browsers are available, each with its unique features and strengths:

  • Google Chrome: Chrome is the most widely used web browser, known for its speed, simplicity, and extensive extension library.
  • Mozilla Firefox: Firefox is a privacy-focused browser offering enhanced security and customisation options.
  • Microsoft Edge: Edge is the default browser for Windows devices, known for its compatibility with Microsoft services.
  • Apple Safari: Safari is the default browser for Apple devices, known for its integration with other Apple products and energy efficiency.

A browser’s function is translating HTML and code to human-readable content. Moreover, a browser translates the URL you enter into its address bar, into an IP address. That permits the connection between your computer and the computer where the website’s content lives. Let’s take a moment to appreciate browsers.

Someone sitting at a desk on a computer

HTTPS

“HTTPS” is the acronym for “Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure”. You would find it automatically added before the URL you enter into the address bar.

This indicates that the webpage has a special layer of encryption added to hide your personal information and passwords from others. Whenever you log in to a webpage that has HTTPS before the address, rest assured that this is a secure website for communication.

Home Page

A simple one here. A home page refers to the main page of a website. The first webpage a visitor sees once they open a website is called the website’s home page.

A home page also refers to the first page that your browser opens. You can select any page to be your home page; the one your browser directly opens once you double-click on the browser’s icon.

Email

Emails have changed the way humans communicate forever. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the invention of the email is as significant as the invention of the telegraph. Email is a method of exchanging typewritten messages and images from one computer to another. To exchange emails, you must have an email address.

It is like having a phone number. To have an email address, you must sign up with a webmail service for free. Gmail and Yahoo are the most popular mail services. If you want someone to send you emails, you must share your email with them.

You can create multiple emails, and the process is simple. Moreover, you can use your email to create accounts on other platforms such as social networks and online shopping services. Therefore, the first essential step in the online world is to create an email.

Email logo
Email is one of the most versatile communication tools around and should be part of your internet training. Image credit: OnlinePrinters

Essential Internet Training Skills for Beginners: Navigating the Online World with Confidence

Online Safety: Protecting Yourself in the Digital Realm

As a beginner, it is crucial to prioritise online safety to protect your personal information and from cyber threats. Here are some key tips for staying safe online:

  1. Strong Passwords: Create strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts to ensure that your personal information is kept safe. Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common names.
  2. Secure Connections: Always use secure connections, indicated by a padlock symbol in the address bar, when accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or shopping.
  3. Personal Information Protection: Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Avoid posting sensitive details on social media or public forums. Keep your information and passwords safe.
  4. Beware of Phishing Scams: Be wary of emails or messages that mimic legitimate organizations and request personal information or financial details. Never click on suspicious links or attachments.
  5. Antivirus Software: Install and regularly update antivirus software to protect your device from malware and cyberattacks.

Basic Web Browsing Techniques: Navigating the Internet with Efficiency

Web browsing is the core of internet usage. Mastering basic web browsing techniques will enable you to effectively search for information, navigate websites, and evaluate online resources. Here are some key techniques:

  1. Search Engines: Use search engines like Google or Bing to find information online. Utilise keywords and search operators for more refined results.
  2. Website Navigation: Pay attention to website menus and navigation bars to find the information you need.
  3. Evaluating Online Resources: Critically evaluate online resources for credibility and accuracy. Consider the source, author, and publication date.
  4. Bookmarking: Use bookmarks to save frequently visited websites for easy access.
  5. Tabbed Browsing: Utilise tabs to manage multiple websites simultaneously, improving browsing efficiency.

Spam and Filter

Since this is an Internet training, you should know that not everything on the Internet is positive. Spam is one of those annoying things on the Internet. The word “Spam” refers to unwanted and unsolicited emails.

Spam comes in two main categories: heavy advertising and hacking attempts. Ads are merely a nuisance, meanwhile hackers attempting to attack your email or your personal computer, are dangerous.

Email services, such as Google and Yahoo, solve this issue by using software that reads incoming emails for keyword combination. If the email’s content seems fishy, the software either deletes or quarantines those emails in a separate folder.

Look for the “Spam” or “Junk” folder in your mailbox to see your filtered emails. You should avoid clicking on any URLs in spam emails unless you trust the sender.

Internet Training: What is a Search Engine?

Top search engines graphic
There are a number of popular search engines out there, not just Google

A search engine is our Internet darling, we are sure we are not the only ones. They are the marvel of the twenty-first century. What do you do when you are lost in a library looking for a specific book?

You ask the librarian and they will tell you exactly where it is, and recommend you similar books that you’d enjoy. A search engine does the same function. It organizes information and makes it accessible to everyone. The world’s best search engine is Google.

Google has become so popular that “to Google” is now an official verb in the Oxford English dictionary.

The Answer to Every Question

Now, the World Wide Web is huge, that’s why we needed a librarian, but with a superpower to be able to guide us through this huge collection of data. A search engine is a program that reads all websites and creates an index or a catalogue for them.

Once a user searches for a keyword, the program compares those keywords to the index it has and gives you the best results. The results are amazing. You can almost get an answer to any question, or get information on any topic, in the matter of seconds!

Internet Training: Social Media

Social media represents a big portion of the Internet. These are large websites “dedicated to community-based input, interaction, content-sharing, and collaboration.” So, the main purpose of these channels is building up an online community, sharing content, and connecting on a local, and a global level as well.

There are different social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Each one has its special features and main theme. For example, LinkedIn is a platform for the global business community. Meanwhile, Instagram is a channel for sharing visuals and images.

Creating an account on any of these platforms requires that you have an email first. They are all free to use.

Blogging

A blog is like a writer’s column in a newspaper. In the past, columns in a newspaper were accessible to a very few number of professional writers. On the Internet, amateurs and professionals share their writings freely on any subject.

So, blogs became revolutionary in the way they give anyone the power to share their stories and writings online. Blogs could be about technology, sports, product reviews, entertainment, or any other type of content.

Ecommerce

Ecommerce is the buying and selling of goods and services electronically. This process requires the transfer of funds and data over the Internet. E-commerce could be business-to-business, business-to-consumer, or consumer-to-consumer.

The most popular e-commerce platform is Amazon. HTTPS guarantees the safety of sharing this information to a high level. Like blogs, e-commerce is also a game changer. Online shopping has been growing in popularity so fast that brick and mortar retailers realized that if they want to have a future in the market, they must have an e-commerce channel.

Internet Training: Downloading and Uploading

Downloading is the process of transferring data from the Internet to your personal computer so you can have access to it later, without an Internet connection. Uploading is the opposite of that. It is transferring files from your own device, to the Web, to share it to the world through an Internet connection.

Downloading and uploading often refer to transferring images, music files, videos, and movies. Of course, each file you transfer has a size, and the bigger the size of the file, the longer it’ll take to upload or download it, depending on the Internet speed.

Internet Training: What is an Application?

An application, or an app, is simply a program designed to perform specific tasks. The clock or the calendar on your mobile device is an app. Similarly, we consider Microsoft word, games, or browsers as apps. Applications differ on the level of complexity and purpose.

Some of them are simple, while others are more complicated. In addition, there are two types of applications: mobile apps; for mobile devices, and desktop apps; for computers. You can download and install apps through different app sources such as Google Play.

Understanding the Cloud: A Beginner’s Guide to Data Storage, Access, and Monitoring

The cloud, often referred to as cloud computing, has revolutionised the way we store, access, and manage data. It refers to a network of interconnected servers that provide on-demand computing resources, including storage, processing power, and applications. These servers are located in data centres around the world, enabling users to access them remotely from any internet-connected device.

Image of hardware storage drives
Cloud storage could be considered a safer and more efficient method of storing data.

Purpose of the Cloud:

The cloud serves several essential purposes in today’s digital landscape:

  • Data Storage: The cloud provides a secure and scalable platform for storing vast amounts of data, eliminating the need for physical storage devices.
  • Data Access: Cloud-based storage enables users to access their data from anywhere in the world with an internet connection, fostering collaboration and remote work.
  • Computing Power: The cloud offers on-demand computing resources, allowing users to rent processing power and software applications without the need for expensive hardware investments.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Cloud computing offers a flexible and cost-effective solution, as users only pay for the resources they utilise.

Types of Cloud Storage Services:

The cloud encompasses various types of storage services, each catering to specific needs:

  • Public Cloud: Public cloud services, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, provide resources to the general public.
  • Private Cloud: Private clouds are dedicated to a single organisation, offering enhanced security and control.
  • Hybrid Cloud: Hybrid clouds combine elements of public and private clouds, allowing organisations to balance flexibility and security.

The most popular cloud storage platforms are Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive. These platforms are all free to use. Set up an account, and you’re ready to store files and share them with others. For Google Drive, you can use your Gmail account.

Leveraging Cloud Monitoring and Full-Stack Observability Solutions:
An important component of effective cloud management is constant vigilance over your network through proper monitoring. This involves checking server health, application performance levels, and user activity to ensure optimal functionality of the system.


In particular, full-stack observability solutions in a hybrid cloud environment prove useful. These comprehensive tools help in tracking down issues which could affect multiple areas within your IT infrastructure – both hardware and software layers inclusive. Modern threats make this a must.

Key Takeaways on Internet Training

The internet offers a wealth of opportunities for communication, learning, and personal growth. By equipping yourself with the necessary skills and knowledge, you can confidently navigate the online world, harness its power for your benefit, and become an active and informed participant in the digital age.

Check out our Digital Marketing For Beginners Guide below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Your Guide to Internet Training

What is internet training?

Internet training, also known as digital literacy training, is a structured learning program that equips individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to confidently and safely navigate the online world. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic internet usage and online safety to more advanced skills such as email etiquette, web browsing techniques, and online research strategies.

Why is internet training important?

The ability to use the internet effectively is no longer a luxury but a necessity in today’s interconnected world. The internet has become an indispensable tool for communication, information access, personal and professional development, and participation in the digital economy. Internet training empowers individuals to harness the power of the internet to enhance their daily lives, expand their knowledge, and connect with others worldwide.

Who can benefit from internet training?

Internet training is beneficial for anyone who wants to improve their internet skills and knowledge. This includes beginners who are new to the internet, people who want to enhance their online safety practices, and those seeking to expand their online capabilities for personal or professional reasons.

What are the different types of internet training?

Internet training can be delivered in various formats to suit different learning styles and preferences. Some common options include:

  • Online courses: Self-paced online courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing learners to progress at their own pace.
  • Instructor-led training: Instructor-led training provides a structured learning environment with personalised guidance and support.
  • Workshops and seminars: Workshops and seminars offer intensive hands-on learning opportunities to develop specific internet skills.
  • One-on-one training: One-on-one training provides individualised attention and tailored instruction for specific needs.

What are some essential internet training skills for beginners?

Essential internet skills for beginners include:

  • Online safety: Understanding online security threats, protecting personal information, and identifying phishing scams.
  • Email etiquette: Writing professional and respectful emails, using appropriate formatting and tone, and following proper email etiquette guidelines.
  • Basic web browsing techniques: Using search engines effectively, navigating websites efficiently, and evaluating online resources critically.
  • Internet terminology: Understanding basic internet terms, such as URL, browser, cloud storage, and social media.
  • File management: Organising and managing downloaded files, saving documents effectively, and understanding file formats.

What are some tips for staying safe online?

Here are some tips for staying safe online:

  • Use strong and unique passwords for all online accounts.
  • Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common names, in passwords.
  • Create security questions that only you know the answers to.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
  • Be cautious about sharing personal information online.
  • Avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments in emails or messages.
  • Install and regularly update antivirus software on your device.
  • Keep your operating system and software up to date.
  • Be aware of common phishing scams and cyber threats.
  • Report suspicious activity to online service providers.

Internet Training: Conclusion

The convenience and breadth of enterprise-grade training content available online makes digital learning the go-to source for employee upskilling and career elevations today. Learners researching providers should evaluate course quality, customization options and peer networking functionality as these factors have the highest correlation to skill application. With careful program vetting, internet-based training delivers on development goals while accommodating busy lifestyles.

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