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The Internet, Intranets and Extranets

The Internet, Intranets and Extranets

The Internet is a worldwide collection of interconnected networks (internetworks or internet for short). The figure shows one way to view the Internet as a collection of interconnected LANs and WANs. Some of the LAN examples are connected to each other through a WAN connection. WANs are then connected to each other. The red WAN connection lines represent all the varieties of ways we connect networks. WANs can connect through copper wires, fiber optic cables, and wireless transmissions (not shown).

Intranets and Extranets

There are two other terms which are similar to the term Internet:

1. Intranet

2. Extranet

Intranet is a term often used to refer to a private connection of LANs and WANs that belongs to an organization, and is designed to be accessible only by the organization’s members, employees, or others with authorization.

An organization may use an extranet to provide secure and safe access to individuals who work for a different organization, but require access to the organization’s data. Examples of extranets include:

1. A company that is providing access to outside suppliers and contractors.

2. A hospital that is providing a booking system to doctors so they can make appointments for their patients.

3. A local office of education that is providing budget and personnel information to the schools in its district.