Why Do People Use the Internet?

Since computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web in 1990, we have become more dependent on it.

21:24 20 December 2018

The longer the internet has been around and the more accessible it has become, the more that users are reliant on it. So why do people use the internet? Here are the top 5 reasons why people are online:

1.    To Access Information

In times gone by, to find out information people referred to encyclopedias; a vast collection of reference books that claimed to list every fact that one could possibly wish to know. Now, however, people have access to the largest library through a device that can fit in the palm of their hand. The internet provides us with information that is displayed through different mediums: text, images, video, and audio so that every learning style is catered for.

While all this information is potentially fantastic, it has led to an enormous amount of disinformation being provided. With recent scandals coming to light how the public have been manipulated through propaganda, it is always important that you verify the source of information that you take from the web.

2.    To Access Goods, Products and Services

E-commerce stores now provide a 24/7 marketplace for consumers to research and buy goods and services that they require. It has given merchants the opportunity to sell their offerings beyond traditional opening hours which increases the potential to make more profit. Starting an ecommerce business has never been easier and has led to a new kind of successful entrepreneur.

3.    Communication

One of the key benefits of the internet has been the influence it has had on the way that people communicate. Communication is now typically instant, inexpensive and face-to-face whether people are talking from a couple of miles away to overseas. Professional and personal relationships have been transformed by the power of the internet.

4.    Entertainment

The internet has changed how leisure time is spent. There are now virtual worlds that gamers can immerse themselves in, forums that you can chat with like-minded people with who share your interests, and television listings are less significant: programmes can be streamed and downloaded whenever viewers wish.

5.    Work

The internet is an essential workplace tool, no matter what the size of the business. Larger organisations use the internet as an online support system to help employees to communicate and collaborate which boosts their efficiency and performance. The potential for remote working is possible as a viable option for employees, all thanks to the internet. The information that workers need is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection, and the possibility of work-life balance becomes more obtainable.

Every aspect of life has been changed by the internet. It gives the opportunity to access information, goods, services, support and entertainment all day and every day. It has changed how we communicate, shop, and work. The influence on daily life has been huge, and for the main part, for the positive. Where it takes users in the future is another question altogether; where do you see the internet of things taking us next?