2024

Bsc Computer Science

2022809445
Web Technology
ASSIGNMENT 1
TASHINGA BWANALI
1) What is WWW? Briefly explain the history of web.

Ans. The World Wide Web, often abbreviated as WWW, is a vast, interconnected digital ecosystem comprised of
an extensive collection of web pages, documents, multimedia content, and interactive applications. It functions as
a global platform where information of diverse formats can be accessed, shared, and utilized by users worldwide
through the medium of web browsers.

The World Wide Web, or WWW, emerged from the fertile grounds of scientific collaboration in the late 1980s. Its
inception is credited to Tim Berners-Lee, a British scientist working at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear
Research. Recognizing the growing need for efficient information sharing among researchers spread across the
globe, Berners-Lee envisioned a system where documents could be linked together, creating a vast interconnected
network.

This vision materialized in 1989 with the development of foundational technologies. HTML (Hypertext Markup
Language) provided the structure for creating web pages, while HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) established the
communication protocol for transferring data between computers. A rudimentary web browser was also created
to navigate through this nascent digital landscape.

Initially conceived as a tool for scientific collaboration, the web’s potential for broader applications quickly became
apparent. The early 1990s witnessed the release of user-friendly browsers like Mosaic, which popularized the web
by introducing graphical interfaces and multimedia capabilities. This marked the beginning of the web's
transformation from a niche tool to a global phenomenon.

As the web gained traction, it rapidly evolved from a static platform to a dynamic and interactive medium. The
introduction of JavaScript and cascading style sheets (CSS) enhanced web page functionality and aesthetics. The
dot-com boom of the late 1990s fuelled unprecedented growth, with e-commerce, social media, and online
services becoming integral parts of daily life.

The web has continued to evolve, adapting to technological advancements and societal changes. The advent of
Web 2.0 brought about user-generated content, social networking, and real-time interactions. Today, the web
stands as a cornerstone of the digital age, connecting billions of people worldwide and facilitating an endless array
of activities, from education and entertainment to commerce and communication.

2) Differentiate between web browser and web server. How does a web server work?

Ans. The difference between web browser and web server is as follows:

Feature Web Browser Web Server

Function Access and display web Store and deliver web content
content.
User interaction Initiates requests for web pages Responds to requests from
browsers
Software Type Client-side application Server-side program
Example Chrome, Firefox, Safari Apache, Nginx, IIS

A web server is a computer system that acts as a central hub for delivering web content. When a user requests
a webpage, the server undergoes several steps to fulfil the request:

1. Receiving the Request: The server receives a request from a web browser, typically containing the URL of the
desired webpage.

2. Processing the Request: The server interprets the request and determines the specific file or resource being
sought.

3. Locating the Resource: The server searches its storage system for the requested file, which might include
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, images, or other media.
4. Generating Content (if necessary): For dynamic websites, the server might process data or interact with
databases to create the webpage content on the fly.

5. Sending the Response: Once the content is ready, the server transmits it back to the web browser in a format
that the browser can understand.

6. Displaying the Content: The web browser receives the data, interprets it, and renders the webpage for the
user to see.

This process occurs rapidly, often within fractions of a second, creating a seamless experience for the user.

3) What is protocol? Explain about the following: (1) HTTP (2) HTTPS (3) PING (4) MIME (5) FTP (6) SMTP (7) IP

Ans. A protocol is a formalized set of conventions and rules governing the syntax, semantics, and synchronization
of communication between two or more devices or processes. It defines the structure and format of data, the
procedures for initiating, maintaining, and terminating communication, and the error handling mechanisms.
Protocols ensure reliable and efficient data exchange by providing a standardized framework for communication,
enabling different systems to interoperate seamlessly.

1. HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)

HTTP is the foundation for communication on the World Wide Web. It defines how messages are formatted and
transmitted between web browsers and web servers. When you visit a website, your browser sends an HTTP
request to the server, and the server responds with the requested webpage using HTTP.

2. HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure)

HTTPS is a secure version of HTTP. It encrypts communication between a web server and a web browser, protecting
sensitive data like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal information. This ensures that your data remains
private while being transmitted over the internet.

3. PING

PING is a network utility used to test the reachability of a host on an IP network. It sends packets of data to a
specific destination and measures the time it takes for the packets to return. This helps determine network
connectivity and speed.

4. MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions)

MIME is used to define the format of data being carried in an email message. It allows different types of data, such
as text, images, audio, and video, to be sent as email attachments.

5. FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

FTP is used for transferring files between computers on a network. It establishes a connection between two
computers, allowing files to be uploaded and downloaded. FTP is often used for transferring large files.

6. SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)

SMTP is used for sending emails. It defines how email messages are formatted and transmitted between email
servers. When you send an email, your email client uses SMTP to deliver the message to the recipient's email
server.

7. IP (Internet Protocol)

IP is responsible for addressing and routing packets of data across the internet. It assigns unique addresses (IP
addresses) to devices on a network and ensures that data packets reach their intended destinations.

These protocols work together to form the backbone of the internet, enabling communication and data transfer
across the globe.

4) What is website? What are the different categories of web site?

Ans. A website is a collection of interconnected digital pages that are accessible through the internet. It serves as
a virtual platform where information, products, or services can be shared with a global audience.

To function, a website requires several key components:

 Web pages: Individual units of content within a website, created using HTML (Hypertext Markup Language).

 Domain name: A unique address (like example.com) used to identify the website on the internet.

 Web server: A computer that stores website files and delivers them to users upon request.

 Hyperlinks: Links that connect different web pages within the website and to external resources.

Websites can vary widely in purpose, size, and complexity. They can be personal online diaries, informative portals,
e-commerce platforms, or social media hubs. The possibilities are vast and continually evolving with advancements
in technology.

Websites can be categorized based on their purpose, content, or functionality. Here are some common categories:

Based on Purpose:

 Personal Websites: Showcase an individual's interests, hobbies, or professional portfolio.

 Business Websites: Promote products or services, provide information about a company, and facilitate online
transactions.

 E-commerce Websites: Focus on selling products or services online, often incorporating shopping carts and
payment gateways.

 Informational Websites: Provide information on a specific topic or subject matter, such as news, education, or
research.

 Social Media Websites: Facilitate social interaction, sharing content, and building online communities.

 Government Websites: Offer information about government services, policies, and public data.

 Non-profit Websites: Promote a cause or raise funds for a charitable organization.

 Portfolio Websites: Showcase the work of designers, artists, photographers, or other creative professionals.

 Blog Websites: Regularly updated with articles or posts on a specific topic or theme.

 Forum Websites: Allow users to engage in discussions and share information through online communities.

Based on Content:

 Static Websites: Content remains fixed unless manually updated.

 Dynamic Websites: Content is generated on the fly based on user interactions or database information.

 Interactive Websites: Allow users to participate and interact with the website, such as online games or quizzes.

Based on Functionality:

 Content Management Systems (CMS): Platforms that allow users to create, manage, and publish website
content without extensive coding knowledge.

 Web Applications: Websites that provide software applications or services accessible through a web browser.

 Mobile Websites: Optimized for viewing on smartphones and tablets.

 Responsive Websites: Automatically adjust layout and content to fit different screen sizes.
5) Write the various steps of creating a web project.

Ans. Developing a website involves a systematic process. It begins with defining the website's purpose and target
audience. This clarity guides the creation of a site map outlining the website's structure and content hierarchy.

Next comes design, where the visual appeal, user interface, and user experience are crafted. This stage includes
creating mock-ups or wireframes to visualize the website's layout. Once the design is approved, content creation
commences. This involves writing text, gathering images, and developing other multimedia elements.

The subsequent phase is development, where the website's structure and functionality are built using coding
languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. For dynamic websites, databases and server-side scripting might be
integrated.

Rigorous testing is crucial to identify and rectify errors, ensuring the website functions correctly across different
browsers and devices. Once the website is refined, it's deployed to a web server, making it accessible online.

Ongoing maintenance is essential to update content, address technical issues, and enhance the website's
performance based on user feedback and analytics.

We can break down the entire process of web project development into following steps:

1. Planning and Conceptualization

 Define project goals: Clearly outline what the website aims to achieve.

 Identify target audience: Determine the primary users of the website.

 Content planning: Outline the type of content to be included.

 Site structure: Map out the website's navigation and hierarchy.

2. Design and Wireframing

 Visual design: Create the website's look and feel, including colour schemes, typography, and imagery.

 User interface (UI) design: Focus on the user experience, ensuring a smooth and intuitive interaction.

 Wireframing: Develop a basic blueprint of the website's layout and structure.

3. Content Creation

 Content development: Write and gather text, images, videos, and other multimedia content.

 Optimization: Ensure content is relevant, engaging, and search engine friendly.

4. Development

 HTML, CSS, and JavaScript: Build the website's structure, style, and interactivity.

 Database integration (if applicable): Connect the website to a database for storing and managing data.

 Server-side scripting (if applicable): Develop the backend logic for dynamic content.

5. Testing

 Functionality testing: Ensure all features work as intended.

 Usability testing: Evaluate the website's ease of use and navigation.

 Compatibility testing: Verify the website functions correctly on different browsers and devices.

6. Deployment

 Choose a hosting provider: Select a suitable platform for hosting the website.

 Upload files: Transfer website files to the server.

 Domain name setup: Configure the domain name to point to the website's server.

7. Launch and Maintenance

 Go live: Make the website accessible to the public.

 Monitor performance: Track website traffic, user behaviour, and technical issues.

 Updates and improvements: Continuously update content and address user feedback.

6) Write the different versions of HTML and Internet Explorer.

Ans. The major versions of HTML are:

 HTML 1.0: The first version, laid the foundation for web development.
 HTML 2.0: Introduced tables, forms, and image maps.
 HTML 3.2: Added support for more multimedia elements like audio and video.
 HTML 4.01: Became the most widely used version, incorporating standards for accessibility and
internationalization.
 XHTML: A stricter version of HTML based on XML syntax.
 HTML5: The current standard, offering enhanced multimedia support, offline capabilities, and improved
semantics.

Similarly, the notable versions of internet explorer are:

 Internet Explorer 1-4: Early versions with basic functionalities.

 Internet Explorer 5: Introduced significant improvements in rendering and standards compliance.
 Internet Explorer 6: Widely used but criticized for compatibility issues.
 Internet Explorer 7: Added support for some CSS features and improved security.
 Internet Explorer 8: Enhanced performance and security, but still faced compatibility challenges.
 Internet Explorer 9: Improved HTML5 support and performance.
 Internet Explorer 10 and 11: Continued improvements, but faced competition from newer browsers.

7) Write the features of Web 2.0.

Ans. Web 2.0 ushered in a new era of internet interaction, characterized by the following features:

 User-Generated Content: Users actively create and share content, rather than simply consuming it.

 Dynamic Content: Websites can adapt and change based on user input and preferences.

 Social Networking: Platforms facilitate interaction and connection between users.

 Rich User Experience: Emphasis on intuitive interfaces and engaging content.

 Collaboration and Sharing: Users can work together and share information easily.

 Constant Improvement: Websites are continually updated and enhanced based on user feedback.

 Web Applications: Online software applications replace traditional desktop software.

 Long Tail: Catering to niche markets and individual preferences.

These features transformed the internet from a static medium to a dynamic and interactive platform.
8) Write the difference between static and dynamic web pages.

Ans.

Feature Static Web Page Dynamic Web Page

The content of a static web page The content of a dynamic web page is
remains fixed and does not change generated on the fly, based on various
Content
unless manually modified. factors such as user input, database
information, or current time.
Static web pages typically have a Dynamic web pages often have a more
simple structure, primarily built using complex structure, incorporating
Structure
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. server-side scripting languages such as
PHP, Python, or Ruby.
Static web pages generally load faster Dynamic web pages may have slower
due to their simpler structure and lack load times because the server needs to
Load Time
of complex processing. process information before sending
the webpage.
Static web pages offer limited Dynamic web pages are highly
interactivity, as the content is fixed interactive, allowing users to engage
Interactivity and does not respond to user actions. with the website through various
means, such as forms, user input, and
real-time updates.
Static web pages are suitable for basic Dynamic web pages are ideal for e-
informational websites, online commerce platforms, social media
portfolios, or simple landing pages websites, content management
Suitability
that require minimal interaction. systems, and other applications that
require frequent updates and user
interaction.

9) Discuss the development of Internet and its impact on society.

Ans. The genesis of the internet can be traced back to the Cold War era when the United States Department of
Defence established ARPANET, a decentralized network designed to withstand a nuclear attack. This pioneering
network connected computers at universities and research institutions, laying the groundwork for what would
eventually become the global phenomenon we know today.

The 1980s marked a period of significant expansion for the internet. The development of protocols like TCP/IP
standardized communication, enabling seamless data transfer between different networks. The emergence of
email and file transfer protocols transformed how information was shared and accessed. However, the internet
remained largely confined to academic and research circles, with limited public accessibility.

A transformative shift occurred in the 1990s with the advent of the World Wide Web. The introduction of hypertext
and graphical user interfaces, pioneered by Tim Berners-Lee, made the internet accessible to a mass audience.
Web browsers like Mosaic revolutionized how people interacted with online information, ushering in an era of
unprecedented growth and innovation.

The impact of the internet on society has been profound and far-reaching. It has revolutionized communication,
enabling real-time interaction across the globe through platforms like social media, video conferencing, and instant
messaging. The democratization of information has empowered individuals with access to knowledge and
resources previously confined to specific institutions. E-commerce has transformed the retail industry, creating
new business models and economic opportunities.

Education has been significantly impacted, with online learning platforms expanding access to educational
resources and enabling flexible learning experiences. The internet has also played a pivotal role in scientific
research, facilitating collaboration, data sharing, and the acceleration of discoveries. However, the rapid growth of
the internet has also presented challenges, including privacy concerns, the spread of misinformation, digital divide,
and cybercrime.
As technology continues to advance, the internet's role in society is evolving rapidly. The convergence of
technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things is creating new possibilities
and reshaping industries. While the future holds immense promise, it also necessitates addressing emerging
challenges to ensure the internet's continued positive impact on society.

In conclusion, the internet has become an integral part of modern life, transforming how we communicate, work,
learn, and interact with the world. Its development from a small, experimental network to a global phenomenon
is a testament to human ingenuity and collaboration. As the internet continues to evolve, it is imperative to harness
its potential while mitigating its risks to create a more connected and equitable future.