Online and offline — Computing, 4–6
Some things happen inside your device, while others need a connection to another computer.
Connected or not connected
Offline means a device is working by itself, using what is already stored inside it. Online means it is connected to other computers through a network. A tablet can draw offline, but it needs to be online to fetch a new video from the internet.
Why the difference matters
People wanted devices to keep working even when no network was available, such as on a journey. They also wanted devices to share new messages, games and videos. Knowing the difference helps you understand a pause: sometimes the app is fine, but it is waiting for a connection.
A video on a journey
You open a video app on a train. A video saved earlier starts playing, even when the signal disappears: that is offline use. You tap a new video, but it will not start because the train has no connection. When the signal returns, the new video can arrive.
A device is not always online
It is reasonable to think that a screen showing an app must be connected, because many apps look the same in both states. But a device can show saved words or pictures without a network. If something new will not load, check the connection before blaming the device.
Where you use it
You meet offline and online when you play a saved game, read a downloaded story or watch a saved video. You are online when you send a message, join a live call or ask a website for new information. This helps you choose what to prepare before going somewhere with weak or no signal.
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