Overview
Facebook is a social networking service founded by Mark Zuckerberg, Eduardo Saverin, Andrew McCollum, Dustin Moskovitz, and Chris Hughes. Initially launched on February 4, 2004, the platform allows users to create profiles, share photos and videos, send messages, and keep in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. Its influence has grown significantly over the years, transforming how individuals interact and share information online.
Key Features
- Profiles: Users can create unlimited personal profiles featuring their interests, details, and photographs.
- News Feed: A steady stream of updates from friends and pages a user follows.
- Marketplace: Buy and sell items within the local community.
- Groups: Users can join communities based on interests, activities, or affiliations.
- Messages: Private communication tool for direct interactions.
- Events: Create, manage, and RSVP to social gatherings.
Popularity
With over 2.8 billion monthly active users reported as of 2021, Facebook is one of the largest social networking platforms worldwide.
Examples
- Personal Use: An individual shares vacation photos and life updates, keeping in touch with friends and family.
- Business Use: A company uses a Facebook page to connect with customers and promote its brand.
- Community Use: Groups enable discussions around shared interests, from hobby groups to local neighborhood watch groups.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How do I create a Facebook account?
- A1. Visit www.facebook.com and follow the online registration instructions.
Q2. Is Facebook free to use?
- A2. Yes, Facebook is free to use, although it offers some advertising and premium features.
Q3. How can I ensure my privacy on Facebook?
- A3. Adjust your privacy settings in the account options to control who sees your information and posts.
Q4. What can I do if I forget my Facebook password?
- A4. Use the ‘Forgot Password’ option on the login page to reset your password through your email or phone number.
Q5. Can I delete my Facebook account permanently?
- A5. Yes, you can delete your account through the account settings under ‘Your Facebook Information.’
Related Terms
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram that allow users to share content and engage socially.
- Network Effects: The phenomenon where increased numbers of users improve the value of a service.
- Online Community: A virtual community where individuals interact over the Internet.
- Data Privacy: Concerns and regulations regarding the collection, storage, and sharing of user data.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Facebook Effect: The Inside Story of the Company That Is Connecting the World” by David Kirkpatrick
- “Facebook Marketing For Dummies” by John Haydon, Paul Dunay, Richard Krueger
- “Zucked: Waking Up to the Facebook Catastrophe” by Roger McNamee
- “The Accidental Billionaires: The Founding of Facebook” by Ben Mezrich
Fundamentals of Facebook: Communications Basics Quiz
### Who is the primary founder of Facebook?
- [x] Mark Zuckerberg
- [ ] Bill Gates
- [ ] Steve Jobs
- [ ] Elon Musk
> **Explanation:** Mark Zuckerberg, along with his college roommates, founded Facebook in 2004.
### In which year was Facebook launched?
- [ ] 2000
- [ ] 2002
- [x] 2004
- [ ] 2006
> **Explanation:** Facebook was officially launched on February 4, 2004.
### Which of these is a key feature of Facebook?
- [ ] Video Conferencing
- [x] News Feed
- [ ] Online Shopping Cart
- [ ] Blockchain Integration
> **Explanation:** The News Feed is a hallmark feature of Facebook, providing updates from friends and pages.
### How does Facebook make most of its revenue?
- [ ] Subscription fees
- [x] Advertising
- [ ] Product sales
- [ ] Donations
> **Explanation:** Facebook's primary revenue source is advertising, though it offers other premium features.
### Can you permanently delete your Facebook account?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
> **Explanation:** Users can permanently delete their Facebook accounts through account settings.
### Which feature on Facebook allows for buying and selling items locally?
- [ ] Profile
- [ ] Groups
- [x] Marketplace
- [ ] Events
> **Explanation:** The Marketplace is where users can buy and sell items within their local community.
### What is the term for virtual communities where individuals interact over the Internet?
- [ ] Social Hubs
- [ ] Networking Sites
- [x] Online Communities
- [ ] Web Forums
> **Explanation:** Online Communities are the virtual spaces where users interact, share content, and socialize.
### What should you do if you forget your Facebook password?
- [ ] Create a new account
- [ ] Call customer support
- [x] Use the 'Forgot Password' option
- [ ] Wait 24 hours and try again
> **Explanation:** The 'Forgot Password' option helps users reset their password using their email or phone number.
### Facebook provides a significant source of revenue for many businesses through which service?
- [x] Advertising
- [ ] Customer Service
- [ ] Product Development
- [ ] Cloud Storage
> **Explanation:** Facebook's advertising platform allows businesses to reach a vast audience, generating significant revenue.
### What major privacy setting feature does Facebook offer to protect user information?
- [ ] Auto-delete history
- [x] Customized privacy settings
- [ ] Masked accounts
- [ ] Data encryption
> **Explanation:** Customized privacy settings let users control who can see their posts and personal information on Facebook.
Thank you for learning about Facebook and tackling our quiz questions. Keep exploring and mastering your understanding of social media platforms!
