An internet agent is a type of software that gathers specific information from around the Web. Put simply, agents are programs that automatically do what you want them to do. A simple example of an Internet agent is one that gathers news from a variety of sources while you're not using your computer or while you are using it for something else. In this case, you fill out a form saying what kind of news you are interested in, and when you want it delivered. Based on your request, the news agent dials into news sites around the Internet, and downloads reports to your computer.
Agents are a critical part of customizable Web sites.
It is an agent that does the work when, for example, you enter your zip code to bring your local weather and news. Shopping agents let you search through the entire Internet for the best bargains. You fill out a form detailing the product you want to buy. When you submit the form, the shopping agent launches programs that search through shopping sites and databases on the Internet. The agent looks into the databases and finds the best prices.