Get the app →
BriefTea logoBriefTea

Every story in sixty words

Get the free app no ads · no paywall

Explained in plain English

Who runs the internet?

No single entity 'runs' the internet. It's a vast global network of interconnected computers and servers, owned and operated by countless organisations, governments, and individuals. They all agree to use common technical standards, like those for PHP mentioned in the story, to ensure everything works together seamlessly.

Stories that explain this

Websites worldwide go offline after two serious flaws found in PHP

Questions this opens up

Who sets internet standards? What is an internet server? Who owns internet cables?

Related explainers

How does AI find flaws? What is a cyber-security firm? What is the Dutch agency? What did the Dutch do? Is the Dutch NCSC like Britain's? Who owns Wikipedia? What is PHP? What is PHP anyway?

The full catalogue

Browse every card filed under R →