The Internet

the public internet's basic structure

The WAN interface of the SOHO router connects the local network to the public internet via several methods:

• digital subscriber line
• cable
• fiber optics
• cellular/satellite
• PSTN

Internet Service Providers

ISPs are responsible to connect the many local networks using high-bandwidth trunks using Internet eXchange Points (IXPs). In an IXP datacenter, ISPs connect their networks with each other using transit and peering rules to enable Internet traffic between local networks that aren't subscribed to their company's Internet service.

There is a tiered hierarchy of ISPs at these datacenters, as not all ISPs have arrangements with each other to link networks and share Internet traffic.

Standardization

Several organizations are responsible for developing the Internet, setting common standards, introducing new protocols, and more.

• Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) - responsible for IP addresses
• Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) - responsible for resolving issues and adopting new standards