The internet is a fundamental service to people’s lives in this time of history. Nowadays, having an internet connection is akin to having clean water and electricity. People need the internet for many things— for news and information, for education, for online services. And, if the internet shuts down for a day, millions of people will lose content and relationships they had established over many years. Hence, the internet is a much-needed service that helps people maintain their connection and the continual exchange of information and insights.
Social media networks, an offshoot of the internet, enable people to stay connected and share news, information, achievements, and obstacles. Social media platforms—emails, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok—have undoubtedly revolutionized information flow among people, whether textual or visual information. So, disrupting that flow of information means upending people’s lives, in one way or another.
The internet has become a significant tool for learning. Bygone are the times when students would put pen to paper to write their school assignments and college term papers and submit them to teachers. Now, students use emails and other internet tools to submit their school assignments. Likewise, teachers send back their feedback and responses electronically. Even students who still engage with traditional learning (sitting in classrooms) need the internet. In addition to textbooks, the internet helps them get more information for their particular subjects and research assignments, thereby making their academic lives easier.
What is more, the internet is the backbone of online learning. Unlike traditional learning, where students sit in classrooms, online education is delivered on the internet. Students who do not like, for whatever reason, to sit in classrooms receive their education via the internet. In other words, they study remotely and have their courses delivered electronically. Therefore, the internet is a vital tool for them. It enlightens them; it enables them to gain education.
People also need the internet for online services. These services include job searching, online banking, and online shopping. People (without the internet) cannot check their bank accounts, they cannot buy things online, they cannot sell things online, and they cannot send resumes online to look for work.
People are married to the internet as they rely on it for many things. If the internet shuts down for a day, people’s lives will partially shut down. Hence, the importance of the internet is tantamount to the importance of water and electricity.