If you're unfamiliar with networking, you may wonder what it is and how it works. This article will walk you through various concepts like the Internet, LAN, Intranet, and Extranet. While these ideas are related, they are not the same.
The Internet is a global network of computers, servers, and other devices that can exchange data. It employs the TCP/IP protocol suite to connect billions of devices and share files, programs, and other resources. The Internet has been around for decades and has completely transformed communication and commerce. This global network is made up of numerous network types, including private networks, business networks, academic networks, and government networks. At any given time, the Internet can connect millions of computers.
The Internet backbone comprises numerous large networks known as Network Service Providers or NSPs. These NSPs communicate with one another to exchange packet traffic. Each NSP is linked to at least three Network Access Points (NAPs). In many cases, packet traffic will bounce from one NSP's backbone to another. Aside from NAPs, several privately owned organizations are known as Internet Exchange Points (IXPs).
Networking is a complex system that employs numerous protocols. There are TCP and IP protocols, medium access control protocols, and application layer protocols. These protocols enable the Internet to function.
A LAN is a network in which end-user devices can communicate. Typically, these devices are computers. They can include smart TVs, monitors, collaboration hardware, meeting room systems, and other devices. These devices, in general, all have ethernet ports that allow them to connect to the LAN. As a result, they can take advantage of high-speed internet connectivity and quick processing.
A home, an office, or a school can all be part of a local area network. Computers and other network appliances can use them to share disk storage, printers, and other resources. Employees can collaborate and share data by allowing the devices to communicate. A local area network can be as large as many computers or as small as one.
A LAN is a common technology in offices and other locations, and it comes in many forms. Others are wired, while others are wireless.
An intranet is an excellent way to connect your employees and improve collaboration processes. It enables free communication within an organization and can connect various devices with various architectures. Employees can access documents and data and deploy applications using a company workstation or browser.
An intranet is an excellent tool for communicating with coworkers and promoting your company's brand. Employees can access tools such as document libraries and calendars of upcoming events. The department can organize the document library to make it easier for users to find the required documents. The project management module is also divided into departments.
Intranets can be linked to external users but must be managed and maintained. They must be checked regularly to ensure proper operation. Furthermore, you should have remote access capabilities, such as mobile devices, if you have an intranet.
An extranet is a private, secure network that enables businesses to communicate with trading partners and improve customer service. They also provide a scalable, adaptable environment for employees to access critical business information anytime and from any location. Extranets can also help businesses save money by reducing paperwork and travel.
Extranets offer the same benefits as intranets and are an excellent platform for knowledge sharing. A retail business, for example, may use an extranet to allow employees working in different locations to view information about previous orders and quantities ordered, which is required for accounting purposes. It may also function as a messenger service and a search engine, among other things. It could also be interactive, like a chat room or social networking site.
Extranets, like intranets, use the same communication technologies but are more secure. An extranet's users must be authorized to use it. Business partners, suppliers, and even some customers may be authorized users. Authorized users can access it without gaining access to the host company's main network. An extranet is, in many ways, a secure file room outside the company's premises. Only authorized users have access to it, and it can be a valuable tool in streamlining business processes.