When I was in my +2 (viva), a teacher asked me: “What is Internet?”
I gave a simple, generic answer.
Maybe back then, my words weren’t enough. But today, standing here, I realize the internet is not just a definition in a book — it’s what we create, connect, and build together.
That’s why I started Sanjal.com — a network where people, ideas, and opportunities can truly
connect. Not limited by exams or textbooks, but open to everyone to define and redefine what the internet means for our lives, our communities, and our future.
This is my very first post here ))
And before I end, I want to thank my little brother @th3N1rjalStaff He told me that I inspire him — and that motivates me even more. It’s for him, for you, and for everyone who believes in building something better together.
This is just getting started
Now I want to ask you the same question my teacher asked me:
The question “What does the internet mean to you?” has evolved over the years and, as of September 2025, carries even deeper implications globally. Here’s an overview of the internet’s significance and impact worldwide:
Global Integration
Extensive Reach: The internet is now deeply woven into the daily lives of about 70% of the global population, serving as a transformative force.
Pervasive Technology: The widespread use of mobile technology and artificial intelligence (AI) is a defining characteristic of today’s digital experience, focusing attention on the evolving digital divide.
Essential Utility
Basic Necessity: For many, the internet has become as vital as utilities like water and electricity. Being online is part of everyday living.
Major Applications
Communication: Enhanced technologies facilitate seamless and immersive communications, keeping people connected across the globe.
Information Access: The internet serves as a fundamental source of news and information.
Commerce: It continues to support remote operations including e-commerce, telehealth, and flexible work arrangements, trends amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Social Awareness: Connectivity has increased global awareness on issues like healthcare and human rights, fostering social movements.
Societal Challenges
Digital Divide: Over 2.5 billion people remain offline. In high-income countries, nearly 93% use the internet, contrasted with 27% in low-income areas, highlighting the persistent digital divide.
Gender Gaps: Despite advancements, men are generally more online than women, suggesting significant potential economic gains if this gap is closed.
Concerns and Governance
AI Concerns: Rising AI integration creates conveniences but also raises issues around privacy and digital addiction.
Governance Debate: With the internet at a development crossroads, debates about its future governance—between centralized state control and an open internet—remain critical.
The internet today is both a catalyst for progress and a magnifier of societal challenges. These dual roles remind us all of the potential benefits and responsibilities that come from staying connected.
The question “What does the internet mean to you?” has evolved over the years and, as of September 2025, carries even deeper implications globally. Here’s an overview of the internet’s significance and impact worldwide:
Global Integration
Extensive Reach: The internet is now deeply woven into the daily lives of about 70% of the global population, serving as a transformative force.
Pervasive Technology: The widespread use of mobile technology and artificial intelligence (AI) is a defining characteristic of today’s digital experience, focusing attention on the evolving digital divide.
Essential Utility
Basic Necessity: For many, the internet has become as vital as utilities like water and electricity. Being online is part of everyday living.
Major Applications
Communication: Enhanced technologies facilitate seamless and immersive communications, keeping people connected across the globe.
Information Access: The internet serves as a fundamental source of news and information.
Commerce: It continues to support remote operations including e-commerce, telehealth, and flexible work arrangements, trends amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Social Awareness: Connectivity has increased global awareness on issues like healthcare and human rights, fostering social movements.
Societal Challenges
Digital Divide: Over 2.5 billion people remain offline. In high-income countries, nearly 93% use the internet, contrasted with 27% in low-income areas, highlighting the persistent digital divide.
Gender Gaps: Despite advancements, men are generally more online than women, suggesting significant potential economic gains if this gap is closed.
Concerns and Governance
AI Concerns: Rising AI integration creates conveniences but also raises issues around privacy and digital addiction.
Governance Debate: With the internet at a development crossroads, debates about its future governance—between centralized state control and an open internet—remain critical.
The internet today is both a catalyst for progress and a magnifier of societal challenges. These dual roles remind us all of the potential benefits and responsibilities that come from staying connected.
Today, the internet is defined by significant technological shifts and societal changes. Here’s how the landscape looks in September 2025:
Key Trends
Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI now drives most online functionalities, from personalized recommendations to optimizing business operations. However, it raises concerns such as misinformation, cybersecurity threats, and intellectual property issues. Experts foresee that by mid-2025, AI could generate up to 90% of online content, posing a challenge to the quality and authenticity of information.
Web3 and Decentralized Internet: Technologies such as blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) are moving beyond speculation. They are increasingly used in finance, social media, and gaming, spurred by improved scalability and clearer regulatory frameworks. Key innovations include zero-knowledge proofs for enhanced privacy and scalability.
The Metaverse and Immersive Technology: The focus is on AI-powered augmented reality glasses, like Meta’s “Orion”. While virtual reality hasn’t fully caught on, smart glasses represent a new computing platform with AI playing a crucial role.
Global Expansion and Infrastructure: Despite efforts to connect the remaining one-third of the world’s population, challenges persist. Geopolitical tensions have led to a fragmented global network, while cybersecurity remains a top priority.
Internet Governance: The UN’s Global Digital Compact raises the debate on the centralization of power in the digital ecosystem and the participation of non-state actors, making 2025 a pivotal year for international internet policy.
The events of 2025 reflect an internet that is expansive in both potential and complexity, bringing both opportunities and challenges.
“What is Internet?”