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An extranet is a network that allows designated external users to access specific resources, such as documents or applications, while remaining secure and controlled. This setup makes it possible for organizations to collaborate with external partners, suppliers, or customers while still maintaining a level of security over the information shared. Extranets are built on the same principles as intranets, which are private networks meant only for internal users of an organization.
In contrast, an intranet is not designed for external access; it serves as a private network for employees to share information and communicate within the organization. The distinction lies in the accessibility: whereas an intranet is closed off to anyone outside of the organization, an extranet opens certain parts of the network to trusted external entities, facilitating collaboration and business processes.
This clear differentiation elucidates the operational scope of both types of networks in organizational environments.