Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, you will be able to:

  • Differentiate between the Internet and the World Wide Web.
  • Describe the function of a web server and a web browser.
  • Define a URL.
  • Identify HTTP as the protocol of the web.

Understanding the World Wide Web

The World Wide Web (or “the Web”) is the most popular service that runs on the Internet. It was invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989/1990 while working at CERN. It is important to remember: The Internet is the “plumbing” (hardware/protocols), and the Web is a “service” (software/content) built on top of it.

1. Hypertext and HTML

The Web is based on Hypertext—text that contains links to other text.

  • HTML (Hypertext Markup Language): The standard language used to create web pages.
  • HTML5: The latest version, which allows for embedded video, audio, and interactive features without needing extra “plugins.” This is critical for modern mobile-first e-commerce.

2. HTTP and HTTPS: The Request-Response Cycle

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the “language” used by web browsers and servers to talk to each other.

The Cycle:

  1. Request: Your browser (the Client) sends a message like GET /index.html HTTP/1.1.
  2. Response: The server sends back the file along with a status code (e.g., 200 OK if successful, or 404 Not Found).

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure): This is the encrypted version of HTTP. It uses SSL/TLS to ensure that data sent between your browser and a website (like your credit card or eSewa password) cannot be intercepted.

3. URLs: The Global Address System

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) tells your browser exactly where to find a resource.

  • Structure: https:// (Protocol) + www.daraz.com.np (Domain) + /products/laptop (Path).

4. Web Browsers vs. Web Servers

  • Web Browsers (The Client): Software like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox. Its main job is to render HTML/CSS code into a visual page and execute JavaScript (the logic).
  • Web Servers: Software like Apache or Nginx that “listens” for requests and delivers the necessary files. In e-commerce, web servers often talk to Application Servers (to handle logic) and Databases (to fetch product info).

The Digital Web in Nepal

The web in Nepal has evolved from simple informational pages to complex interactive platforms.

  • News & Information: Onlinekhabar and Ratopati are leading digital news sources.
  • Utilities: Hamro Patro is the “Swiss Army Knife” of the Nepali web, offering calendars, news, and exchange rates.

2. Government Web Services (Digital Nepal Framework)

The Government of Nepal is increasingly moving services online:

  • e-Government: Portals for Online Tax Payment, Driving License Status, and Passport Appointments.
  • Nagarik App: A unified “Super-app” and web portal designed to provide citizens with various government services in one place.

3. The Importance of Unicode

Standardized Nepali Unicode has been vital for the growth of the local web. It allows Nepali text to be indexed by search engines like Google, making local content discoverable globally.

Discussion Questions

  1. What is the difference between Static Web Pages and Dynamic Web Pages? Which one is used for an e-commerce cart?
  2. Why is HTTPS mandatory for modern e-commerce websites?
  3. Name three Nepali websites that use Dynamic Content to provide personalized experiences.