Hello,

Could you direct me to a web page or a tutorial where I can learn how the computer connects to the internet. I am interested in what happens inside the computer, when you enter a URL or click on a link (with regard to Proxy Settings, DNS settings, HOSTS File etc.)

Thank you.
The OSI Model
http://compnetworking.about.com/cs/designosimodel/g/bldef_osi.htm

floccinaucini, what do you already know?
Did you read the general article on Wikipedia?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proxy

Proxy can be either software in your computer, or a special feature inside a ROUTER or gateway device. Also, IE can be set to always use a proxy.
Hello Sir, Geek-9pm

Yes I read the Wikipedia article about the proxy server and this aspect is quite clear. Some of the 'Wiki' articles are too technical for me and I get LOST in them but this ONE is OK. On the contrary, I learn MUCH from the CH tutorials because they are easily understood with limited prior knowledge.

About Networking, my knowledge is almost nil. Hence, the subject of this thread. What I really want to learn is about the different ways that the computer settings work. How the computer connect to the internet depending on the different ways the proxy settings, DNS settings, the Hosts file etc. are configured.

Thank you.