What is a search engine?
n
nThe term "search engine" is often used generically to describe both search engines and Web directories.
n
nThey are not the same.  The difference is how listings are compiled.
n
n
n             
We'll use the term "search engine" generically to describe all WWW search tools.  However, it is important to know that there is a difference between the types of search tools that are available.  A "search engine" is defined very specifically, and is different from a "Web directory".  But as I said, people use the term search engine to describe both.