One of the most important concepts in MIS is the necessity of sharing data. Networks today
are based on the Internet protocols, and provide data transfers as well as applications
through Web browsers. Networks are used to send messages (e-mail), share experiences
(discussion groups and Web sites), schedule meetings (electronic calendars), and share
teamwork. Advances in the cell phone and wireless industries are bringing a convergence of phones
and data access through wireless network connections. Wired networks still form the backbone
of our networks and provide better connections and faster data transfers. Internet costs
are determined by the local phone companies that control the pricing of the last mile, and by
the long-distance companies that own the nationwide fiber-optic network. To establish a business connection to the Internet (to run a server), you need to lease a communication line
from a local provider (in most cases the phone company), and also pay an ISP for access to
the Internet. Higher-capacity connections cost more money, but economies of scale make it
profitable for the large providers to resell access to smaller businesses. The telecommunications facilities and prices on which we rely in industrialized nations
are not always available in other nations. Additionally, there are incompatibilities between
equipment produced for various nations. Political restrictions are another source of complications
when transferring data across international boundaries. | 
2003 McGraw-Hill Higher Education