Review Questions

1- Why is file compression important on the Internet?
File compression is reducing the size of a file so that more files can fit in the same amount of disk space. This allows messages to be transferred through the networks faster.

2- What new services are available as a result of the commercialization of the Internet? What new problems are arising as a result of that commercialization?
As a result of the commercialization of the Internet, there are many new services available to users. Users are able to shop online, research topics for homework or entertainment, share files, read articles and comment on them, and communicate with one another. However, there are several issues that arise with the commercialization of the Internet. These include security, privacy, and the idea of intellectual property. Hackers are able to get into computer systems and steal people's personal information which may lead to identity theft. Regarding privacy, there are websites that have files documenting everything a person does and this information can be easily accessed. When sharing files online, people can violate copyright rules, in essence stealing from the original owners and creators.


3- Residents of the People’s Republic of China can have their Internet access blocked for a period of time if they attempt to access banned sites. Do you feel this is an effective way for the Chinese government to control people’s behavior on the Internet?
Yes, as much as I do not believe that the government should monitor and control people's behavior, I think this is an effective way of doing so. If you have tried to access a banned site and have your Internet blocked for some time, then you are not likely to do so again. People do not have the time to sit around all day waiting until their Internet is unblocked. So that they won't waste their time, they will not access the websites again.