The internet has offered many great benefits to its users as well as a few major disadvantages. We use the internet in our daily lives for many things and it has brought conveniences and comforts to our lifestyles that we could not imagine giving up. So, even though there are some risks involved with using the internet, the advantages do outweigh the disadvantages, below is a breakdown of the good and the bad when it comes to the internet.
The Advantages
Communication
Communication has been never been easier, the internet allows us to communicate with friends, family, loved ones, co-workers or just about anyone we want quickly and effectively. You can use social networks to share your information, statuses, pictures or jokes with everyone in your friends circle with just a simple click of the mouse. E-mails will deliver messages instantly and through video chat and real time instant messaging services you can hold conversations from virtually anywhere with anyone.
Information
The resources available for information are unlimited. You can find information about anything you want with a click of the mouse online. You can visit virtually any library in the world and never have to crack open a book again if you don’t want to. Get information on local events; find businesses in your area, reviews on products or services, technical support and much more.
Entertainment
The internet allows us to find all of our entertainment needs. We can download our favorite television shows, movies or music playlists right to our computers and even find games and other sources of entertainment online. Interactive gaming has become very popular and allows users to play their favorite games with friends over the internet in real time, so it is just like being there together even if you are across the world.
Online Services
The internet has made it simple for you to do just about anything online. You can book a trip, transfer funds from your bank accounts, pay your bill, make reservations, and purchase a rental car and even shop for your favorite items online.
E-Commerce
E-commerce has become a huge part of the internet world and allows people the convenience of finding and purchasing anything they can imagine and have it delivered directly to their front door. Offline businesses are learning that the advantages to internet marketing are enormous and must not be overlooked. It is affordable as well as effective to use online marketing as part of any business marketing campaign.
Disadvantages
Personal Identity Theft
The internet offers a risk for personal information theft. Anytime you leave your information, personal or financial online you must ensure the site is safe and secure. Always visit trusted websites and never leave your information unprotected. Viruses are a leading cause to information theft and without the properly updated Anti-virus software installed and firewall protection any information you store on your computer’s hard drive can be at risk.
Virus Threats
Having a virus enter your computer can be devastating and can do irreversible damage to your computers infrastructure. Be sure that your anti-virus and firewall software is up to date and the settings are set to protect your information at the highest possible level.
Pornography
Pornography is a huge issue with internet usage and if you have small children in the home you may want to install filters to protect them.
Spam
Unwanted emails and solicitations can be annoying and the more you use the internet the more likely your inbox is to be filled with them.
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