Each node contributes memory space and processing capabilities, making the Internet a decentered medium . The Internet began with the U.S. military, which wanted a decentered medium in case a nuclear attack destroyed the military hierarchical chain of command. The actual design was created by scientists in universities, who used the Internet to exchange ideas. Today's Message Center E-mail allows communication between a sender at one computer and a receiver at another in the system. Listserves are discussion groups where members can post messages and reply.
Browsers are specialized computer programs that translate the special language used on the Web.
The Internet, greatly expanded from its original military use, is now an Information Highway to bring the world closer together. The imaginary places of the Internet are called cyberspace . Cyberspace was socially created, like language, because we chose to give meaning to electronic impulses on a computer screen. Because users of computers are invisible and inaudible, they can create their own identity. According to Walther, users engage in selective self-presentation , creating a more attractive self than exists in reality.