This module has explored how modern web systems operate through a layered architecture. What was previously referred to as the Web Interaction Model is now more accurately aligned with the Five-Layer Web Architecture Model, a framework that maps conceptual web interaction to the recognized structure of the modern Internet stack.
In previous lessons, this was referred to as the Web Interaction Model. In modern technical literature, this layered architecture aligns more closely with the Five-Layer Internet Model.
Across this module, you examined how user actions initiate requests, how networks transport those requests, how servers process them, and how hardware infrastructure enables the entire exchange. Together, these elements explain how resources are requested, transmitted, interpreted, and rendered.
The module began with an introduction to the layered model in Intro to the Web Interaction Model, where you learned how interaction can be understood as a coordinated system rather than a single event.
You then explored the structural foundations of connectivity in Internet, Intranets, and Extranets, distinguishing public networks from private and hybrid infrastructures used by organizations.
In How Networks Communicate, you examined TCP/IP, HTTP, and related protocols that govern data exchange. These protocols represent the formal networking mechanisms that underpin the higher-level interaction model.
The lesson Networks and the Interaction Layer connected conceptual interaction with packet-based transmission, showing how application requests move across distributed systems.
You then analyzed the physical dimension of computation in Hardware Components Layer, recognizing that routers, switches, servers, and client devices execute and store the processes required for web delivery.
In Web Process in Action, you traced a complete request-response lifecycle—from user input to rendered output—illustrating how each layer activates during a real transaction.
Finally, in Web-Based Business Applications, you applied the layered framework to enterprise systems such as stock quote applications, CRM systems, and transactional platforms.
Today’s web environment extends beyond human browsers. AI agents, search engines, and automated systems also request and interpret resources. An experience-first architecture requires semantic structure, secure transmission, machine-readable content, and scalable infrastructure.
The Five-Layer Web Architecture Model therefore integrates:
This layered coordination ensures scalability, performance, security, and interpretability.
Throughout the module, you encountered foundational networking terminology including: Connectivity, Dedicated Connection, Dial-up Connection, Firewall, Hubs, Internet Backbone, Internet Service Provider (ISP), LAN, Modem, NIC, Pipeline, and Routers.
While some of these technologies (such as dial-up connections or hubs) reflect earlier phases of internet development, understanding them provides historical context for modern high-speed broadband, fiber networks, cloud data centers, and edge computing architectures.
This module has established the architectural foundation for understanding web systems. In subsequent modules, you will build on this layered framework to make planning and design decisions for scalable, secure, and user-centered web environments.
As you modernize this module in the future, revisit the layered terminology and align it consistently across the workflow.