Social networking has become an everyday, common way to use the internet. Social networking refers to using social media websites and apps, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat, to connect with family, friends, and people who share your interests.

Social networking is common all over the world, especially among young people, but not everyone understands exactly what it means. Here is a simple breakdown of the uses, components, and common terms of social networking.

If you participate in social networking, it means that you use social media sites, also known as social networks, to connect with others. Some of the most popular social media sites are Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

While different social media sites attract certain types of users, Facebook is a good example of a general social network. When you join Facebook, you may know other people who use the site and add them as friends. As you use the platform more, you can add friends who share your interests or discover people you know and add them as well. Other people can find you on Facebook and try to connect with you.