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Internet & email

Understand the internet, websites and browsers

The internet connects devices and services. The web uses that network to deliver pages in a browser. A website groups related pages under an address.

2 min read·Any phone or computer· 4 steps
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Before you start

  • A connected device for the optional practice
  • A familiar website address

Step 1 of 4: Identify your connection

Your device might reach the internet through home Wi-Fi, an Ethernet cable or mobile data. Wi-Fi is a local connection and can work even during a provider outage; the symbol alone does not prove a website will load.

Step 2 of 4: Find your browser

Look for an app such as Edge, Chrome, Safari or Firefox. A browser displays web pages. It may start with a search page, but the browser and the search service are different things.

Step 3 of 4: Visit an address

Click the address bar, type a familiar website address and press Enter or Go. A domain identifies the website, while the rest of a longer address often points to a specific page. Check spelling before signing in.

Step 4 of 4: Follow one link and return

Choose a harmless menu link within the site to open another page. Use Back to return. Some sites update content without changing the address. If one site fails, try another before concluding your whole internet connection is broken.

Try it for yourself

Your small practice task.

Open a familiar site and name the browser, website and connection you used.

Completing the guide records your progress here; it does not check your device settings.

Path overview Next lesson

A common question.

Is everything online a website?

No. Email, calls and other apps also use the internet. They may connect to services without showing a normal web page.

Official help, if you need it.

These links provide the product’s own instructions or relevant public guidance. Settings can differ by model and software version.