ITA- UNIT5
ITA- UNIT5
Introduction
Search Engine refers to a huge database of internet resources such as web pages, newsgroups, programs,
images etc. It helps to locate information on World Wide Web.
User can search for any information by passing query in form of keywords or phrase. It then searches for
relevant information in its database and return to the user.
Generally there are three basic components of a search engine as listed below:
1. Web Crawler
2. Database
3. Search Interfaces
Web crawler
It is also known as spider or bots. It is a software component that traverses the web to gather information.
All the information on the web is stored in database. It consists of huge web resources.
Search Interfaces
This component is an interface between user and the database. It helps the user to search through the
database.
Web crawler, database and the search interface are the major component of a search engine that actually
makes search engine to work. Search engines make use of Boolean expression AND, OR, NOT to restrict
and widen the results of a search. Following are the steps that are performed by the search engine:
The search engine looks for the keyword in the index for predefined database instead of going
directly to the web to search for the keyword.
It then uses software to search for the information in the database. This software component is
known as web crawler.
Once web crawler finds the pages, the search engine then shows the relevant web pages as a
result. These retrieved web pages generally include title of page, size of text portion, first several
sentences etc.
These search criteria may vary from one search engine to the other. The retrieved information is ranked
according to various factors such as frequency of keywords, relevancy of information, links etc.
User can click on any of the search results to open it.
Architecture
The search engine architecture comprises of the three basic layers listed below:
Content collection and refinement.
Search core
User and application interfaces
Indexing Process
Index Creation- It takes index terms created by text transformations and create data structures to support
fast searching.
Query Process
User interaction- It support creation and refinement of user query and displays the results.
Evaluation- It monitors and measures the effectiveness and efficiency. It is done offline.
Examples
Search
Engine Description
Google It was originally called BackRub. It is the most popular search engine globally.
It was launched in 1996 and was originally known as Ask Jeeves. It includes
Ask
support for match, dictionary, and conversation question.
It is top 5 internet portal and 13th largest online property according to Media
LYCOS
Matrix.
Alexa It is subsidiary of Amazon and used for providing website traffic information.
Web directories
Search engines and web directories are both tools used to navigate and discover information on the
internet, but they serve slightly different purposes and operate in different ways:
Search Engines:
Search engines are vast databases that index web pages and other online content based on keywords or
phrases.
They use complex algorithms to rank and display search results based on relevance to the user's query.
Examples of popular search engines include Google, Bing, Yahoo, and Baidu.
Web directories
Web directories, on the other hand, are curated lists of websites organized into categories and
subcategories. They are typically human-edited, meaning that entries are reviewed and categorized by
people rather than algorithms.
Web directories can be general or niche-specific, catering to particular topics or industries.
While web directories were more common in the early days of the internet, they have become less popular
with the rise of search engines. However, some niche directories still exist and can be useful for specific
purposes.
Yahoo Directory: One of the oldest and most well-known web directories. It used to be a significant
player but was shut down in 2014. However, some aspects of its directory can still be found within
Yahoo's search results.
DMOZ (Open Directory Project): DMOZ was a large, volunteer-edited directory that was widely used
in the early days of the internet. It was discontinued in 2017.
Best of the Web (BOTW): BOTW is one of the few remaining prominent web directories. It offers both
free and paid submission options and covers a wide range of topics.
Business.com: This directory focuses specifically on business-related websites and resources.
While search engines are the primary tools for finding information on the web today, web directories can
still be useful for niche searches or for discovering curated lists of websites within specific topics.
However, they are not as commonly used as they once were, particularly with the advancement of search
engine algorithms and technologies.
Internet explorer is a web browser developed by Microsoft. It is installed by default with the windows
operating system how ever, it can be downloaded and be upgraded.
The Internet Explorer window will appear as shown in the following diagram:
Navigation
A web page may contain hyperlinks. When we click on these links other web page is opened. These
hyperlinks can be in form of text or image. When we take the mouse over an hyperlink, pointer change its
shape to hand.
Key Points
In case, you have accessed many web pages and willing to see the previous webpage then just
click back button.
You can open a new web page in the same tab, or different tab or in a new window.
Saving Webpage
Web elements are the pictures, links etc. In order to save these elements follow the steps given below:
Right click on the webpage element you want to save. Menu options will appear. These options
may vary depending on the element you want to save.
Save Picture As: This option let you save the picture at specific location with its name. When you click
this option, a dialog box is opened where you can sepcify its name and location.
avorites
In order to open any webpage, you just need to double click on the webpage that you have marked from
bookmarks list.
In ordered to add website to your favourite list, follow the steps given below:
Open webpage that you want to add to your favourite.
Click on favourite menu and then click on Add to Favourites opton. Addfavourites dialog box
appears.
You can also click Favourites button available in the toolbar. Favourites panel will open in the left
corner of the internet explorer window. Click add button, AddFavourites dialog box will apppear.
In AddFavourites dialog box, the Name: text box will contains the name of the web page that
you want to add to favourites.
Click the Create in button, Favoutites folder will appear. Move to the folder where you want to
store the favourites by clicking on the folder name.
Now click OK button to save the favourites.
Opening Favourites
Favourite can also be opened from the Favourites menu by selecting the appropriate one.
Organizing Favourites
Favourites can be organized by categorizing web pages, creating folder for each category and then storing
web pages into them. In order to organize favourites, follow the steps given below:
Click Favourites menu > Organize Favourites. Organize favourites dialog box will appears.
In order to organize the webpages, drag the individual webpage to the respective folder. Similarly
to delete a favourite, Click on delete button.
As of my last update in January 2022, Internet Explorer remains a web browser option, although its usage
has significantly declined in favor of more modern browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and
Microsoft Edge. However, I can provide you with information about Bigfoot, InfoSpace, and WhoWhere:
InfoSpace:
InfoSpace was a metasearch engine and internet directory that provided search results from various search
engines. Founded in 1996, it was one of the early players in the internet search industry. InfoSpace
aggregated results from major search engines like Google, Yahoo!, and Bing, providing users with a
comprehensive set of search results. However, similar to Bigfoot, InfoSpace's relevance waned with the
dominance of major search engines.
WhoWhere:
WhoWhere was another early internet directory and people search service. Founded in 1996, it allowed
users to search for contact information, including email addresses and phone numbers. WhoWhere also
offered a variety of other services such as website hosting and email accounts. Like Bigfoot and
InfoSpace, WhoWhere's popularity declined over time with the emergence of more advanced search
engines and online directories.
Please note that the information provided here is based on the status of these services as of January 2022,
and there may have been further developments or changes since then.
Yahoo-subscriptions and channels
The word "yahoo" is a backronym for "Yet Another Hierarchically Organized Oracle" or "Yet Another
Hierarchical Officious Oracle". The term "hierarchical" described how the Yahoo database was arranged
in layers of subcategories.
As of my last update in January 2022, Yahoo does not offer subscription-based services in the same way
as streaming platforms or cable TV providers. Yahoo primarily generates revenue through advertising on
its various online platforms and services, such as Yahoo Mail, Yahoo News, Yahoo Finance, and Yahoo
Sports.
While Yahoo does not have subscription-based channels or services, it does offer some premium features
or services that users can pay for. For example:
These are examples of premium services that Yahoo offers, but they are not subscription-based channels
in the traditional sense. Users typically pay for these services on a monthly or yearly basis to access
enhanced features or an ad-free experience.
It's important to note that Yahoo's offerings may change over time, so it's a good idea to check the Yahoo
website or app for the most up-to-date information on available services and features.
Channels
As of my last update in January 2022, Yahoo does not offer traditional subscription-based
channels similar to cable TV providers or streaming platforms like Netflix or Hulu. However, Yahoo
provides various content channels across its online platforms that cover a wide range of topics including
news, finance, sports, entertainment, lifestyle, and more. These channels are part of Yahoo's digital media
network and are accessible through the Yahoo website, Yahoo mobile apps, and other Yahoo-owned
platforms.
Here are some of the main content channels offered by Yahoo:
Yahoo News: Yahoo News provides coverage of breaking news, current events, politics, world affairs,
and more. It features articles, videos, photo galleries, and live coverage of major events.
Yahoo Finance: Yahoo Finance offers financial news, stock market updates, investment insights,
personal finance advice, and tools for investors and traders.
Yahoo Sports: Yahoo Sports covers sports news, scores, analysis, highlights, and live game updates
across various sports leagues and events.
Yahoo Entertainment: Yahoo Entertainment features news, reviews, interviews, and coverage of
movies, TV shows, music, celebrity gossip, and the entertainment industry.
Yahoo Tech: Yahoo Tech provides news, reviews, and guides on technology products, gadgets, software,
and digital trends.
Yahoo Travel: Yahoo Travel offers travel guides, destination recommendations, travel tips, and vacation
ideas for travelers.
These channels are accessible to users for free, and they provide a mix of original content, curated
articles, and aggregated news from various sources. While Yahoo does not offer subscription-based
channels, it may offer premium services or features within certain channels, such as ad-free experiences
or premium content for a fee. Users can access these channels through the Yahoo website, mobile apps, or
other Yahoo-owned platforms.
Web sites
A website is a collection of many web pages, and web pages are digital files that are written using
HTML(HyperText Markup Language). To make your website available to every person in the world, it
must be stored or hosted on a computer connected to the Internet round a clock. Such computers are
known as a Web Server.
The website’s web pages are linked with hyperlinks and hypertext and share a common interface and
design. The website might also contain some additional documents and files such as images, videos, or
other digital assets.
With the Internet invading every sphere, we see websites for all kinds of causes and purposes. So, we can
also say that a website can also be thought of as a digital environment capable of delivering information
Components of a Website:
We know that a website is a collection of a webpages hosted on a web-server. These are the components
for making a website.
Webhost: Hosting is the location where the website is physically located. Group of webpages (linked
webpages) licensed to be called a website only when the webpage is hosted on the webserver. The
webserver is a set of files transmitted to user computers when they specify the website’s address..
Address: Address of a website also known as the URL of a website. When a user wants to open a
website then they need to put the address or URL of the website into the web browser, and the asked
website is delivered by the webserver.
Homepage : Home page is a very common and important part of a webpage. It is the first webpage
that appears when a visitor visits the website. The home page of a website is very important as it sets
the look and feel of the website and directs viewers to the rest of the pages on the website.
Design : It is the final and overall look and feel of the website that has a result of proper use and
integration elements like navigation menus, graphics, layout, navigation menus etc.
Content : Every web pages contained on the website together make up the content of the website.
Good content on the webpages makes the website more effective and attractive.
The Navigation Structure: The navigation structure of a website is the order of the pages, the
collection of what links to what. Usually, it is held together by at least one navigation menu.
When we type a certain URL in a browser search bar, the browser requests the page from the Web server
and the Web server returns the required web page and its content to the browser. Now, it differs from how
the server returns the information required in the case of static and dynamic websites.
Static Website:
In Static Websites, Web pages are returned by the server which are prebuilt source code files built
using simple languages such as HTML, CSS, or JavaScript. There is no processing of content on the
server (according to the user) in Static Websites. Web pages are returned by the server with no change
therefore, static Websites are fast. There is no interaction with databases. Also, they are less costly as the
host does not need to support server-side processing with different languages.
Dynamic Website:
In Dynamic Websites, Web pages are returned by the server which is processed during runtime
means they are not prebuilt web pages, but they are built during runtime according to the user’s demand
with the help of server-side scripting languages such as PHP, Node.js, ASP.NET and many more
supported by the server. So, they are slower than static websites but updates and interaction with
databases are possible. Dynamic Websites are used over Static Websites as updates can be done very
easily as compared to static websites (Where altering in every page is required) but in Dynamic Websites,
it is possible to do a common change once, and it will reflect in all the web pages.
There are different types of websites on the whole internet, we had chosen some most common categories
to give you a brief idea –
Blogs: These types of websites are managed by an individual or a small group of persons, they can
cover any topics — they can give you fashion tips, music tips, travel tips, fitness tips. Nowadays
professional blogging has become an external popular way of earning money online.
E-commerce: These websites are well known as online shops. These websites allow us to make
purchasing products and online payments for products and services. Stores can be handled as
standalone websites.
Portfolio: These types of websites acts as an extension of a freelancer resume. It provides a
convenient way for potential clients to view your work while also allowing you to expand on your
skills or services.
Brochure: These types of websites are mainly used by small businesses, these types of websites act
as a digital business card, and used to display contact information, and to advertise services, with just
a few pages.
Web resources offer a plethora of uses across various domains. Here are some common applications:
Information Retrieval: Web resources serve as vast repositories of information on virtually any topic
imaginable. Users can access articles, research papers, tutorials, and guides to learn about specific
subjects or solve problems.
Communication and Networking: Social media platforms, email services, and messaging apps facilitate
communication and networking with friends, family, colleagues, and professionals worldwide. They
enable real-time interaction, collaboration, and information exchange.
Entertainment: Streaming services, gaming websites, and multimedia platforms offer a wide range of
entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, games, and online videos. Users can access
entertainment content for leisure and relaxation.
Education and E-Learning: Educational websites, online courses, and e-learning platforms provide
opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills in diverse fields. Users can engage in self-
paced learning, attend virtual classes, and earn certifications or degrees remotely.
Research and Academic Pursuits: Academic databases, scholarly journals, and digital libraries support
research endeavors by providing access to peer-reviewed articles, academic publications, and research
findings. Students, scholars, and researchers can explore academic literature and contribute to the
advancement of knowledge.
News and Information Consumption: News websites, blogs, and online publications deliver timely updates,
breaking news, and analysis on current events, politics, economics, science, and more. Users can stay
informed about global developments and societal issues.
Health and Wellness: Health-related websites, medical portals, and fitness apps provide information,
advice, and resources for maintaining physical and mental well-being. Users can access health articles,
track fitness goals, and manage medical conditions.
Productivity and Organization: Productivity tools, task managers, and collaboration platforms assist
users in organizing tasks, managing projects, and enhancing workflow efficiency. Users can create to-do
lists, set reminders, and collaborate with team members in real time.
E-Commerce and Online Shopping: E-commerce websites and online marketplaces enable users to
browse, compare, and purchase products and services from a vast array of vendors. Users can shop for
goods, read reviews, and make secure transactions from the comfort of their homes.
Overall, web resources empower individuals with access to information, communication, entertainment,
education, and various tools and services, contributing to personal growth, professional development, and
societal progress.
Certainly! Web resources play a vital role in delivering news and weather information to users
worldwide. Here's a breakdown of the main types of web resources in these categories:
News Websites:
BBC News (https://www.bbc.com/news): Renowned for its comprehensive coverage of global events,
BBC News provides articles, videos, and live updates across various topics.
CNN (https://www.cnn.com/): CNN offers breaking news, analysis, and opinion pieces on politics,
business, health, and entertainment.
The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/): A leading newspaper known for its in-depth
reporting and commentary on national and international affairs, culture, and lifestyle.
Reuters (https://www.reuters.com/): An international news agency delivering unbiased reporting on
global events, finance, business, and politics.
Weather Websites:
The Weather Channel (https://weather.com/): Provides weather forecasts, radar maps, and weather
news. It offers hourly and daily forecasts, severe weather alerts, and videos on weather-related topics.
Sports:
ESPN (https://www.espn.com/): ESPN is one of the most popular sports news and broadcasting
networks. Their website offers comprehensive coverage of various sports leagues, teams, scores, news,
analysis, and highlights.
Yahoo Finance (https://finance.yahoo.com/): Yahoo Finance provides financial news, stock market
updates, investment insights, personal finance advice, and tools for investors and traders.
Investopedia (https://www.investopedia.com/): Investopedia is a comprehensive resource for investing
education, personal finance, market analysis, and financial terms. It offers articles, tutorials, and
investment guides.
The Motley Fool (https://www.fool.com/): The Motley Fool provides investment advice, stock market
analysis, and financial planning resources for individual investors. It offers articles, podcasts, and
premium services.
Bloomberg (https://www.bloomberg.com/): Bloomberg delivers business and financial news, market
data, analysis, and insights on global markets, stocks, currencies, and commodities.
CNBC (https://www.cnbc.com/): CNBC offers financial news, stock market updates, business analysis,
and investment insights. It features articles, videos, and interviews with industry experts.
These web resources offer a wealth of information and tools for sports enthusiasts, investors, and
individuals seeking guidance on personal finance matters. Whether you're tracking your favorite sports
team or planning your investment portfolio, these platforms provide valuable insights and resources to
help you make informed decisions.
YouTube: YouTube is a popular platform for watching videos, including movie trailers, music videos,
web series, vlogs, and user-generated content. Users can subscribe to channels and create playlists.
YouTube
Spotify: Spotify is a leading music streaming service that offers a vast catalog of songs, albums, playlists,
and podcasts. Users can stream music on-demand, create playlists, and discover new artists. Spotify
Apple Music: Apple Music provides access to a wide range of music, including songs, albums, playlists,
and radio stations. It offers personalized recommendations and curated playlists. Apple Music
Twitch: Twitch is a live streaming platform primarily focused on gaming content, but it also features
streams related to music, talk shows, creative arts, and other forms of entertainment. Twitch
Disney+: Disney+ is a streaming service that offers a vast library of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars,
and National Geographic content. Subscribers can stream movies, TV shows, and original series. Disney+
Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and original
content for Prime members. Subscribers can stream content on-demand or download for offline viewing.
Amazon Prime Video
These web resources offer a variety of entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music,
podcasts, and live streams, catering to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you're a movie buff,
music enthusiast, or avid gamer, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
These web resources provide convenient and secure platforms for online shopping, offering a wide
selection of products and services to meet various needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for
electronics, clothing, home goods, or unique handmade items, these websites offer something for
everyone.
Kids
PBS Kids: A website offering educational games, videos, activities, and resources for children based on
PBS Kids shows. PBS Kids
Nickelodeon: Nickelodeon's website offers games, videos, quizzes, and activities featuring popular
Nickelodeon characters and shows. Nickelodeon
National Geographic Kids: National Geographic's website offers educational games, videos, articles, and
quizzes focused on science, nature, and exploration for kids. National Geographic Kids
Disney Junior: Disney Junior's website features games, videos, activities, and resources based on Disney
Junior shows and characters for preschool-aged children. Disney Junior
PBS Parents: PBS Parents provides parenting resources, articles, tips, and activities to support children's
learning, development, and well-being. PBS Parents
Parents
Parenting.com: Parenting.com offers articles, advice, tips, and resources on parenting, pregnancy, baby
care, and family life. Parenting.com
BabyCenter: BabyCenter provides information, articles, and resources on pregnancy, baby care,
parenting, and child development. BabyCenter
Today's Parent: Today's Parent offers articles, tips, and advice on parenting, family life, pregnancy, and
child development. Today's Parent
Fatherly: Fatherly provides parenting advice, articles, and resources for dads on topics ranging from
fatherhood to family life. Fatherly
The Bump: The Bump offers articles, tools, and resources for expectant and new parents, covering
pregnancy, baby names, baby care, and parenting. The Bump
Facebook Groups: Facebook Groups allow users to join communities based on shared interests, hobbies,
or affiliations. Users can participate in discussions, share content, and connect with like-minded
individuals. Facebook Groups
Meetup: Meetup is a platform for finding and joining local groups and events based on shared interests
and activities. Users can connect with others in their community and participate in group activities offline.
Meetup
Nextdoor: Nextdoor is a private social network for neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with
neighbors, exchange recommendations, and discuss local issues and events. Nextdoor
Quora: Quora is a question-and-answer platform where users can ask questions, provide answers, and
engage in discussions on various topics. Users can follow topics of interest and connect with others based
on shared expertise or interests. Quora
These web resources provide valuable information, support, and community for travelers, parents, kids,
and individuals seeking to connect with others who share similar interests and experiences. Whether
you're planning a family vacation, seeking parenting advice, or looking to connect with like-minded
individuals, these platforms offer a wealth of resources and opportunities for engagement.
WebMD: WebMD offers health information, medical news, symptom checkers, and resources on various
medical conditions, treatments, and wellness topics. WebMD
Mayo Clinic: Mayo Clinic's website provides reliable health information, medical advice, symptom
checkers, and resources on diseases, conditions, and treatments. Mayo Clinic
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC website offers information, guidelines,
and resources on public health, diseases, outbreaks, vaccinations, and emergency preparedness. CDC
National Institutes of Health (NIH): The NIH website provides health information, research updates,
clinical trials, and resources on various diseases, conditions, and treatments. NIH
Bible Gateway: Bible Gateway offers online access to various translations of the Bible, devotionals,
study tools, and resources for Christians. Bible Gateway
The Vatican: The official website of the Vatican provides news, documents, and resources related to the
Catholic Church, the Pope, and Vatican City. The Vatican
Al-Islam.org: Al-Islam.org offers resources on Islam, including Quranic texts, Islamic teachings, articles,
and multimedia content. Al-Islam.org
Chabad.org: Chabad.org provides resources on Judaism, including Torah study, Jewish holidays,
articles, and multimedia content. Chabad.org
Hinduism Today: Hinduism Today offers articles, news, and resources on Hinduism, spirituality, and
culture. Hinduism Today
These web resources offer valuable information, guidance, and support for individuals seeking knowledge
and resources related to health, medicine, religion, and spirituality. Whether you're looking for medical
advice, exploring religious teachings, or seeking spiritual inspiration, these platforms provide a wealth of
resources to support your journey.