What is Facebook?

Facebook is a website that serves as a free online community and connects people from all over the world. Originally, Facebook was only open to students of Harvard University, but eventually branched out to include all Ivy League schools, all college students, high schools, and eventually became a completely open service requiring only a valid email address.

It is estimated that the social network has more than 175 million active users and is mostly used to help people meet, stay in contact, and learn more about each other. Widespread search features allow people to locate one another but require approval from the user to maintain security. Other elements of Facebook include the ability to upload and share an unlimited number of photographs, videos, and links. Notes, the marketplace, and personalized gifts are just several options that make Facebook a unique and multipurpose network. Profiles with personal information are the main component although groups and events also help organize and educate members.

All of these facets combine to make Facebook one of the most successful and fastest growing internetphenomenons. In the United States, Facebook is the 7th most frequented website and accounts for 85% of college students. According to some studies, at least 85% of registered Facebook users log onto their accounts at least once a week.