The Social Media is an internet based means of information Dissemination. It allows us to communicate and share information over the internet. This means that Social media are interactive technologies and digital software that aid the creation and sharing of information, ideas, interests, and other forms of expression through virtual networks and internet connection. We all are users of the Social Media in one way or the order, some times unknowingly. Let's find out how in this post. ![social-3064515_960_720.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmY83h9J5Hb5iCQqiWyhjQXmmeqnDLqyNDKPtao5rEXY4z/social-3064515_960_720.jpg)[source](https://pixabay.com/illustrations/social-social-media-communication-3064515/)

Role of Social Media

Social media originated as a way to interact with friends and family but was later adopted by companies that needed to reach out to a huge number of people, Social media has the ability to connect and share information with anyone on Earth within just a short period of time. There are over 3.8 billion social media users in the world today. Social media is a rapidly developing field, because new applications are being launched regularly and they join the ranks of already popularly used ones like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram and so on.

Types of Social media

Social Networks: These are used to associate with individuals and friends over the internet. Example: Facebook, WhatsApp

Media Sharing Networks: Used for sharing Media files like pictures and videos. Example: Snapchat, YouTube

Discussion Forum: These are used for discussing and sharing some forms of information. Example: Discord, Reddit

Content Curation Networks: Used in Channelizing Brand Awareness for your business. Example: Pinterest

Consumer Review Networks: Used in collecting consumer reviews about a product or establishment. Example: Zomato, TripAdvisor

Blogging Networks: These ones are used for publishing, discovering and commenting on articles. Example: Steemit, WordPress

Social Shopping Networks: These are used to find out the latest trends in the market and get shopping tips. Example: Polyvore, Fancy

Interest Based Networks: This is used to connect with people that have specifically the same interests with you. Example: Houzz

Conclusion

Social Media have really changed the world as most of the important activities are being carried out on this media and this has improved the value of our lives. Social media has allowed us to stay connected with friends, find information faster, and even add our own personalities and ideas to the online world. I'll be coming up soon to share the Pros and Cons of Social Media. Stay Tuned.