NCERT Class 12 Informatics Practices Informatics Practices: Chapter 5 — Internet and Web
This chapter introduces students to the concepts of computer networks and the internet. It defines a network as an interconnection of two or more similar things or people, providing examples like social networks and mobile networks. A computer network is specifically defined as an interconnection of computing devices that allows data and resource sharing. The chapter discusses network size variations and the types of hosts (nodes) involved, such as servers and laptops. It also touches upon networking devices like switches and routers, and the concept of data being divided into packets for communication. Understanding these fundamental concepts is crucial for students to grasp how information is exchanged in the digital world and forms the basis for further learning in web technologies and internet applications.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 12 |
| Subject | Informatics Practices |
| Book | Informatics Practices |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Internet and Web |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 292 |
Learning outcomes
- Define a network and provide real-world examples.
- Understand the concept of a computer network and its purpose.
- Identify different types of hosts and networking devices.
- Explain the basic principle of data transmission in packets.
- Differentiate between the Internet, websites, and web pages.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Network | An interconnection of two or more similar things or people. |
| Computer Network | An interconnection among two or more computers or computing devices allowing data and resource sharing. |
| Host/Node | A device connected to a network, such as a server, desktop, laptop, or cellular phone. |
| Networking Devices | Hardware used to connect computers in a network, like switches and routers. |
| Packets | Smaller chunks of data into which information is divided for transmission over a network. |
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Practice questions
- What is a network in general terms? Answer: A network is a group of two or more similar things or people interconnected with each other.
- Define a computer network. Answer: A computer network is an interconnection among two or more computers or computing devices that allows them to share data and resources.
- Give examples of hosts (nodes) in a computer network. Answer: Examples of hosts include servers, desktops, laptops, and cellular phones.
- What are packets in the context of networking? Answer: Packets are smaller chunks of data into which information is divided for communication over a network.
Practice MCQs
Q1. What is defined as an interconnection among two or more computers or computing devices?
Explanation: A computer network specifically refers to the interconnection of computing devices for sharing data and resources.
Q2. Which of the following is an example of a host (node) in a computer network?
Explanation: Laptops are computing devices that can act as hosts or nodes in a network, whereas routers, switches, and modems are networking devices.
Q3. Information is divided into smaller chunks called ______ for network communication.
Explanation: Data is divided into packets for efficient transmission across a network.
Q4. Which quote is provided at the beginning of the chapter?
Explanation: The chapter begins with a quote attributed to Noam Chomsky regarding the internet's potential for education and society.
Q5. What is the primary function of a computer network?
Explanation: The core purpose of a computer network is to enable the sharing of data and resources among connected devices.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main idea of Chapter 5 of NCERT Informatics Practices Class 12?
Chapter 5, 'Internet and Web', introduces students to the fundamental concepts of computer networks, the internet, websites, and web pages, explaining how devices connect and share information.
What is a network according to the chapter?
A network is defined as a group of two or more similar things or people interconnected with each other.
What is the purpose of a computer network?
A computer network allows two or more computers or computing devices to share data and resources among each other.
What are packets in networking?
Packets are small chunks of data that information is divided into for transmission over a network.
What are some examples of networks mentioned in the chapter?
Examples include social networks, mobile networks, computer networks, and networks of airlines, railways, banks, and hospitals.
What are nodes in a computer network?
Nodes, also called hosts, are the individual devices connected to a network, such as servers, desktops, laptops, and cellular phones.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 12 Informatics Practices — Informatics Practices — Chapter 5 — Internet and Web. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.