Internet, History and Economics of

The history and economics of the Internet encompasses the continuing narrative about the worldwide network of computers that itself contains computer networks interlinked using standardized communication protocols and to the circulation of resources that occurs in the context of the Internet. A dominant example of computer-mediated communication, the Internet has enabled users to participate in the global dissemination of information and communication products for civic, commercial, and other purposes. The Internet has triggered massive innovation in mass media, transforming practices in and catalyzing the convergence of previously autonomous print, radio, television, film, advertising, and public relations industries, while propelling the establishment and proliferation of new media companies.

In a 2018 report titled Measuring the Digital Economy, the International Monetary Fund articulated the concept of a digital ...