How the Internet Works
Year 4 learn how the internet sends information using networks, addresses and routers.
# How the Internet Works
In Year 4 we look behind the screen to understand how the internet sends information.
A Network of Networks
The internet is many computers and devices joined together all over the world. When you send a message, it does not travel in one piece. It is split into small parts that travel separately and are put back together at the other end.
Addresses
Every device on the internet has an address, called an IP address. It is a bit like a postal address. The address tells the network where to send each part of your message.
Routers
Routers are the signposts of the internet. They read the address on each part and send it along the best path. Parts can take different routes and still arrive in the right order.
Websites
A website is stored on a computer called a server. When you type a web address, your device asks the server for the page, and the server sends it back across the network.
Related Resources
Need worksheets for this topic? Generate a personalised worksheet or browse our collection.
