Relationship between Intranet and Extranet

By: Mohammed Nadeem

The Internet

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The Internet is a public and global communication network that provides direct connectivity to anyone via a Local Area Network (LAN) and an Internet Service provider (ISP). Access to the Internet is not restricted to anyone. This lack of control may result in an information overload. Due to its vast scope and openness, the information is difficult to locate. Users need effective and efficient search engines to navigate the sea of information . There is no centralized control of network and information.

The Intranets

Intranet uses the same Web interface but put up firewalls (a special security software) so that only employees could access the company’s Web site. It is an internal organizational Internet.

Only employees who are issued passwords and access codes are able to use them.

Firewalls protect intranets from unauthorized outside access.

Public/ExternalInternet Users

Intranet

Clients

ServersERP

Legacy systems

E-mail servers

Web servers

Databases

Firewalls

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The Intranet (cont.)

Firewalls

Software and hardware that allows only those external users with specific characteristics to access a protected network

Usually located at a gateway point and controls traffic between internal and external networks

Advantages of Intranets

Intranets help employees to quickly locate information and applications relevant to their roles and responsibilities.

Standard interface, allowing “access from anywhere”.

Can serve as a powerful tool for communication within an organization.

Permits information to be published.

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The Extranet

An extranet implies an “extended intranet”, which uses TCP/IP protocol networks (like the Internet) to link intranets in different locations.

Extranet is somewhere between Internet and Intranet. It also uses firewalls, but it allows only selected outsiders, such as business partners, suppliers, and customers, to access the company’s Web site.

Can be viewed as part of a company’s

Intranet that is extended to users outsidethe company.

Tunneling Internet

Extranet

IntranetFirewall

Intranet

Firewall

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The Extranet (cont.)

SuppliersVPN

Distributors VPN

Customers

VPN

Virtually Private Network (VPN)

VPN is a secure network on the Internet using the tunneling schemes

When two sites are connected across a VPN, each must have a VPN-capable router, firewall, or VPN access device installed

Advantages of Extranet

Can improve organization productivity. Allows information to be viewed at times convenient for external users.

Cuts down on meeting times.

Information can be updated instantly. Authorized users have immediate access to latest

information.

Can improve relationships with customers

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Summary : Internet, Intranet, and Extranet

Network Typical Type of Type Users Access Information

Internet Any individual with dial-up access or LAN

Unlimited, public; no restrictions

General, public and advertisement

Intranet Authorized employees ONLY

Private and restricted

Specific, corporate and proprietary

Extranet Authorized groups from collaborating companies

Private and outside authorized partners

Shared in authorized collaborating group

Industry Specific Intranet Solutions

Financial Services: Banking, brokerages and other financial services, insurance

Information Technology Manufacturing: Chemicals and oil, consumer goods,

food and beverages, general manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals

Retailing Services: Construction and engineering, education,

environmental, healthcare, media, entertainment, telecommunications, transportation, and utilities

Enterprise

ConsumersSuppliers

Clients

Business Partners

Distributors

VPN

Internet

Intranet

Extranet

IntranetIntranet

Intranet

Intranet

VPN VPN

VPN

VPN

RemoteEmployees

Basic Concept of Extranets Revisited

© Prentice Hall, 2000

Elements of Extranets

Components of Extranets Intranets Web server Firewalls

Tunneling technology Interface software Business application

Productivity Enhancements

Benefits of Extranet Application

Just-in-time (JIT) information delivery Reduction of information overload Productive collaboration between

workgroups Training on demand

Business Enhancements

Benefits of Extranet Application

Faster time to market Improved client relationships New business opportunities

Thank You