ARPANET vs. Internet

Attribute	ARPANET	Internet
Year of creation	1969	1983
Founder	ARPA	Various organizations
Original purpose	Military communication	Academic and research communication
Number of connected computers	4	Millions
Protocol used	NCP	TCP/IP

History

ARPANET, which stands for Advanced Research Projects Agency Network, was the first wide-area packet-switching network with distributed control and the precursor to the Internet. It was developed in the late 1960s by the United States Department of Defense's Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA). The goal of ARPANET was to create a network that could withstand a nuclear attack by being decentralized. On the other hand, the Internet, which is a global network of interconnected computers, was developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s as a way to connect various research institutions and government agencies. It was initially known as the ARPANET, but eventually evolved into the Internet we know today.

Technology

ARPANET used a technology called packet switching, which breaks data into small packets that are sent independently over the network and reassembled at the destination. This technology allowed for more efficient use of network resources and increased reliability. The Internet also uses packet switching, but it has evolved to include other technologies such as TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) which standardizes how data is transmitted over the network. This standardization has allowed for the seamless communication between different types of devices and networks.

Scope

ARPANET was initially limited to connecting research institutions and government agencies in the United States. It was a closed network that required permission to join. In contrast, the Internet is a global network that connects billions of devices around the world. It is an open network that anyone can join, allowing for the free flow of information and communication across borders. The Internet has revolutionized the way we communicate, do business, and access information.

Speed

ARPANET had a maximum speed of 56 kilobits per second (Kbps), which was considered fast for its time. However, as more users joined the network and demand for faster speeds increased, the limitations of ARPANET became apparent. The Internet, on the other hand, has evolved to support speeds of up to gigabits per second (Gbps) through technologies such as fiber optics and high-speed wireless connections. This increase in speed has enabled the development of bandwidth-intensive applications such as streaming video and online gaming.

Security

Security was a major concern for ARPANET, given its origins in the Department of Defense. Measures were put in place to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of data transmitted over the network. However, as the network grew and became more interconnected, security vulnerabilities became more apparent. The Internet faces similar security challenges, with cyber attacks and data breaches becoming more common. Security measures such as encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems are used to protect data on the Internet.

Accessibility

ARPANET was initially limited to a small number of research institutions and government agencies. Access to the network was restricted and required approval from ARPA. The Internet, on the other hand, is accessible to anyone with an internet connection and a device that can connect to the network. This accessibility has democratized access to information and communication, allowing people from all walks of life to connect and share ideas.

Impact

ARPANET laid the foundation for the Internet and revolutionized the way we communicate and share information. It paved the way for technologies such as email, file sharing, and the World Wide Web. The Internet has had an even greater impact, transforming every aspect of our lives from how we work and shop to how we socialize and entertain ourselves. It has connected people across the globe and created new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.