The primary attribute of social networking involves increasing a business and/or social contacts by making new connections via individuals. The internet allows such a connection, which means more and more companies are able to exploit this medium through web-based groups created for this particular cause. Social network services mainly focus on building online social networks for many communities who share interests and activities, or who are interested in exploiting the interests and activities of others.

Various online social networks allow users to interact in many ways including, email, blogging, file sharing, chat, messaging, video chat, and many more. Therefore, Map Runner, Picli, Myspace, MSN and Facebook are typical examples of social networking. They all allow users to create a personal profile that includes a brief description of themselves and can even upload a photograph. User are also able to make friends with many other users within the same community and can communicate with them some social networks even permit users to upload videos whether personal or public.

Some factors that may be important to think about with social networking websites are:

• Privacy issues – There is a concern where putting too much personal information on one’s profile. All users need to be aware of things like data theft and viruses. It is also possible for some information to be retained or passed onto 3rd parties after the user has deleted their personal profile. Many services work in conjunction with law enforcement to prevent these situations from occurring.
• Devise based networking – Mobile phone manufacturers are also getting involved with social networking where users can create a list of friends and associates.