Social Networking Site

A social networking site (SNS) is one form of an online community that allows people to create and maintain friendships and other social relationships by offering opportunities for interaction and the sharing of multimedia content. Users can develop a profile that includes personal information, photos and videos, hobbies and interests, and links to other online content. Users can also view the profiles of other members, with whom they can choose to have conversations or share content.

Because connectivity and personalization are key characteristics of SNSs, they are often seen as a central element of Web 2.0, a term used to describe interactive web platforms that prominently feature characteristics such as customization, opportunities for self-expression, and collaborative production of user-generated [Page 1612]content. This entry further discusses the ...