Online Social Networks

Define an online social network. Differentiate among Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

An online social networks is a websites that allow users to be part of a virtual community that share interests, photos, stories with other registered users. Some of the most popular sites are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Each websites provide users with tools to create a custom profile. Profile includes basic information about the user and one profile picture. Social networks site has different tools and online application based on their audience.

Facebook has no specific audience and has advanced profiles setting that may include photo albums and videos.  Users focuses more on an online community wherein a registered user can add friends, send messages to other users, and leave comments directly on friends' profiles.

Twitter enables registered users to read, and send short 140-character messages called "tweets". Only Registered users can read and post tweets, and unregistered users can only read them. Tweet keep the user to stay updated with the daily activities.

LinkedIn is a business-oriented social networking service, mainly used to share professional interest, education and employment history. It allows the registered user to add coworkers or college to their contact list. The online information in LinkedIn is consider an online resume. Employers can post a job and hire possible job hunter.  

Social networking is a community of people from different places that provide an opportunity to keep in touch with old friends and to meet people you don't know from across the world. Strangers can be able to get personal information from a friends profile page. It is a good idea to review the privacy settings of your account. Be responsible for your own safety and integrity and always remember to think first before posting.