Chalem Systems Group Glossary of Important Database Terminology: Intranet

Intranet

A computer network within a company or organization that makes use of Internet Protocols and other Internet technologies. For example, a company might create a group of web applications that allows employees to retrieve employee benefits information and other proprietary information. These applications would typically be accessible only on the company's internal network, not via the public Internet. Such application software, and the computer network supporting it, would comprise an Intranet. It is not always possible to draw sharp distinctions among Extranet, Intranet, and Internet applications. All three share a set of standards and technologies, and they often coexist on the same physical networks and computers. The distinction is primarily in the organization functions that the systems perform: Intranet applications are for communication within a single organization; Extranet applications are for communication between closely-affiliated organization; and the Internet is for communication with a wide audience.