ELI5: how the internet works

// eli5

What is the internet?

The internet is like a giant system of roads that connects all the computers in the world together [3]. Just like mail trucks deliver letters between houses, the internet delivers information between computers [5].

How do computers talk to each other?

When you want to see a website, your computer sends a request to another computer that has the files you want [1]. That computer reads your request and sends back the information to your screen [1].

What makes it all work?

The internet breaks up information into tiny pieces called packets, like putting a letter in an envelope [5]. These packets travel through many different paths to reach the right computer, and then get put back together so you can see the full picture [5].

How do computers know where to send things?

Computers use special rules called protocols that everyone follows, so they understand each other no matter where they are [5]. It's like everyone speaking the same language so they can communicate [3].