What is social networking.

This is the internet phenomenon that has taken Ireland by storm over the last five years.It comes in the form of Facebook,Bebo and twitter.
Social networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups,almost into communities. Social networking can happen face to face eg.college but it is most popular online. The reason for this is because instead of small groups networking face to face millions of people can do it online and discuss different topics eg.music and sport. As previously mentioned above thses site come in the form of Facebook ans Bebo but it can even be more direct eg.MSN chat rooms.
One of the many benefits that comes from these networking sites is the friends you make and how diverse they can be. For example you could be in America and develop an online friendship or even a relationship with a person in Denmark. Not only will you make these friends but you might learn something about different cultures and different languages and learning is always a good thing.
Social networking often involves grouping specific individuals or organizations as already stated. These site focus on specific interests, there are other sites that do not. These websites without a main focus are often refered to as "Traditional" social networking websites and are normally open for anyone to join. This means that anyone from the public can join. However once inside this online community you can create your own network of friends and pick and choose who can become a member. Along with the ample benefits there are also many problems associated with social networking these include identity theft,viruses,data theft and paedophilia.