23USECG27 INTERNET AND ITS APPLICATIONS

Unit I: Internet Concepts

Introduction – Internet Connection Concepts – Connecting to Dial-up Internet
Accounts – High Speed Connections : ISDN, ADSL, and Cable Modes – Intranets :
Connecting LAN to the Internet.
Unit II: E-mail Concept
E-mail Concepts – E-mail Addressing – E-mail Basic Commands – Sending and
Receiving Files by e-mail – Controlling e-mail Volume – Sending and Receiving Secure e-
mail.
Unit III: Internet Services
Online Chatting and Conferencing Concepts – E-mail Mailing Lists – Usenet
Newsgroup Concepts – Reading Usenet Newsgroups – Video Conferencing.
Unit IV: Web Concepts and Browsers
World-Wide-Web Concepts – Elements of Web – Clients and Servers – URL and TP –
Web Browsers – Netscape Navigator and Communicator-Microsoft Internet Explorer.
Unit V: Search Engines
Search Engines – Web Directories – Microsoft Internet Explorer – Searching for
Information – Bigfoot, Infospace, Whowhere, Yahoo- Subscriptions and Channels – Web
Sites-Making use of Web Resources – New and Weather, Sports, Personal Finance and
Investing – Entertainment – Shopping – Travel, Kids, Teems, Parents and Communities,
Health and Medicine, Religion and Spirituality.
Introduction to Computer Networks:
A computer network is a set of interconnected devices that communicate and share resources.
These devices can include computers, servers, routers, switches, and other hardware
components. The primary purpose of a computer network is to facilitate communication and
resource-sharing among these devices.

Key Concepts:
1. Communication:
- Data Transmission: Networks enable the transmission of data from one point to another,
allowing devices to share information.
- Protocols: Communication in a network follows specific protocols or rules that govern
how data is formatted, transmitted, and received.

2. Resource Sharing:
- Shared Files and Applications: Networks allow users to share files, applications, and other
resources, promoting collaboration and efficiency.
- Centralized Resources: Servers on a network often host centralized resources, such as
databases or printers, that can be accessed by multiple users.
3. Topology:

Bus topology
Also known as the backbone, linear, or ethernet topology, this type of network is
distinguished for having all of the nodes connected by a central medium (the “bus”) which
has exactly two endpoints.

Bus topologies are easy to configure and require less cable length than some other topologies.
However, if the central bus breaks down, so does the whole network, and it can be difficult to
isolate the problem.

Ring topology

Nodes are connected in a circular pattern, and packets of information are sent through the
ring until they reach their destination.

Ring networks can outperform those based on the bus topology, and they can be easily
reconfigured to add or remove devices. However, they are still relatively vulnerable, since the
whole network fails if a single node fails. Also, bandwidth must be shared across all the
devices and connections.

Star topology

One of the most common topologies, the star topology consists of a central hub or switch,
through which all of the data passes, along with all of the peripheral nodes connected to that
central node.
Star topologies tend to be reliable because individual machines may crash without affecting
the rest of the network. But if the central hub or switch fails, none of the connected nodes will
be able to access it. Cable costs also tend to be higher for star networks.

Mesh topology

There are two types of mesh topology. In the first, which is called full mesh topology, each
node is directly connected to every other node.

In a partial mesh topology, nodes are only connected to the nodes they interact with most.

Most networks employ some combination of topologies to yield what’s called a hybrid
topology. For instance, the tree topology combines the bus and mesh topologies.
- Physical and Logical Layout: Networks have a physical layout (how devices are
connected) and a logical layout (how data flows). Common topologies include star, bus, ring,
and mesh.
4. Types of Networks:
- Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network limited to a small geographic area, such
as a single building or a campus. It provides high-speed data transfer and is commonly used
in homes and businesses.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN spans a larger geographic area, connecting LANs
over long distances. The internet is an example of a global WAN.
- Wireless Networks: These use wireless signals (Wi-Fi) for communication, allowing
devices to connect without physical cables.
5. Networking Devices:
- Router: Routes data between different networks.
- Switch: Connects devices within a local network, forwarding data to the specific device.
 - Hub: Connects multiple devices in a LAN, but lacks the intelligence of a switch.
- Gateway: Connects different types of networks, facilitating communication between them.

Advantages of Computer Networks:

1. Resource Efficiency:
- Networks allow efficient use of resources by facilitating resource sharing, reducing
redundancy, and optimizing access.
2. Communication:
- Networks enable seamless communication through emails, messaging, video
conferencing, and collaborative tools.
3. Centralized Management:
- Centralized servers in a network allow for easier management of data, applications,
and security protocols.
4. Reliability and Redundancy:
- Redundant paths in network design enhance reliability, ensuring that if one path
fails, data can still be transmitted through an alternative route.
5. Scalability:
- Networks can be easily scaled to accommodate growing numbers of users and
devices.

Challenges and Considerations:

1. Security:
- Ensuring data confidentiality and protecting against unauthorized access is a critical
challenge in network design.
2. Data Transmission Speed:
- The speed of data transmission is crucial, especially for applications that require
real-time communication or large file transfers.
3. Scalability:
- Designing a network that can scale to accommodate growth in users and data
volume is a continuous consideration.
4. Maintenance and Upkeep:
- Regular maintenance, updates, and monitoring are essential for optimal network
performance and security.
What is the Internet?

The Internet, short for "Interconnected Networks," stands as a global network

that connects billions of computers across the world with each other
and to the World Wide Web.
It uses standard internet protocol suite (TCP/IP) to connect billions of
computer users worldwide.
It is set up by using cables such as optical fibers and other wireless
and networking technologies.
At present, internet is the fastest mean of sending or exchanging
information and data between computers across the world.

It is believed that the internet was developed by "Defense Advanced Projects

Agency" (DARPA) department of the United States. And, it was first
connected in 1969.

Internet Connection Protocols

Protocols are a set of guidelines that aid in regulating the operation of any
specific organization or technology.

Three main categories of Internet Connection Protocols are discussed

below:

o TCP/IP Network Model: The most popular protocols for linking networks
are Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP). Any
communication is split up into a number of packets that are sent from
source to destination.
o File Transfer Protocol: With the help of FTP (File Transfer Protocol), a user
can transfer documents, text files, multimedia files, program files, etc., from
one device to another.
 o Hypertext Transfer Protocol: It is used to move a hypertext between two or
more computers or other devices. Links can be made using HTML tags and
can take the form of text or graphics.

Advantages of the Internet:

o Instant Messaging: You can send messages or communicate to anyone
using internet, such as email, voice chat, video conferencing, etc.
o Get directions: Using GPS technology, you can get directions to almost
every place in a city, country, etc. You can find restaurants, malls, or any
other service near your location.
o Online Shopping: It allows you to shop online such as you can be clothes,
shoes, book movie tickets, railway tickets, flight tickets, and more.
o Pay Bills: You can pay your bills online, such as electricity bills, gas bills,
college fees, etc.
o Online Banking: It allows you to use internet banking in which you can
check your balance, receive or transfer money, get a statement, request
cheque-book, etc.
o Online Selling: You can sell your products or services online. It helps you
reach more customers and thus increases your sales and profit.
o Work from Home: In case you need to work from home, you can do it using
a system with internet access. Today, many companies allow their employees
to work from home.
o Entertainment: You can listen to online music, watch videos or movies,
play online games.
o Cloud computing: It enables you to connect your computers and internet-
enabled devices to cloud services such as cloud storage, cloud computing,
etc.
o Career building: You can search for jobs online on different job portals and
send you CV through email if required.

There are many connections that can be used for internet access. All the
connections have their own speed range that can be used for different
purposes like for home, or for personal use.
Internet Connection Concepts:
Internet connections come in two main types: wired and wireless.
* Wired connections, like Ethernet, utilize physical cables for data transmission.
* Wireless connections, encompassing technologies such as Wi-Fi and cellular networks, rely
on radio waves for communication.
* Various types of Internet connections cater to users based on their needs and geographic
locations, each varying in terms of speed, reliability, and cost.
* Dial-up internet, an early method for Internet connectivity, involves a standard telephone
line and a modem to establish a connection.
* The modem converts digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over
telephone lines.
* Characterized by relatively slow speeds, typically capped at 56 kbps, dial-upconnections
have dwindled with the rise of high-speed broadband technologies.

Types of Internet Connection:

Internet connections can be broadly classified into two main types: wired and
wireless. These connections serve as the lifeline for accessing and interacting with the vast
world of information and services available on the Internet.

Wired Connections:
Wired connections use physical cables to transmit data between devices. The two
primary types of wired connections are Ethernet and Fiber Optic connections.

1. Broadband Connection

* Broadband refers to high-speed internet access that is faster than traditional dial-up access.
It is provided through either cable or telephone composition.
* It does not require any telephone connection that’s why here we can use telephone and
internet connection simultaneously. In this connection, more than one person can access
the internet connection simultaneously.
* It is a wide bandwidth data transmission that transports several signals and traffic types.
In this connection, the medium used is coaxial cable, optical fiber cable, radio, or twisted
pair cable.
 Broadband Connection

2. Ethernet Connections:
Description: Ethernet connections involve the use of Ethernet cables to establish a
physical link between a computer or device and a network router or switch.
Speeds: Ethernet connections typically offer high-speed data transmission, ranging from
10 Mbps (megabits per second) for older standards to 1 Gbps (gigabit per second) or more for
modern standards like Gigabit Ethernet.
3.Fiber Optic Connections:
Description: Fiber optic connections use thin strands of glass or plastic (fiber optic cables)
to transmit data using light pulses. This technology provides high bandwidth and is known
for its reliability and speed.
Speeds: Fiber optic connections can offer extremely high speeds, ranging from hundreds
of Mbps to multiple Gbps.

Wireless Connections:
Wireless connections use radio waves or infrared signals to transmit data between
devices. The most common types of wireless connections include Wi-Fi and cellular
networks.

1. Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity):

Description: Wi-Fi allows devices to connect to a local area network (LAN) wirelessly.
Wi-Fi networks are established using a wireless router, and devices connect to this router to
access the Internet.
Speeds: Wi-Fi speeds vary depending on the Wi-Fi standard (e.g., Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi
6), ranging from Mbps to Gbps.
2.Cellular Networks:
Description: Cellular networks use mobile towers to provide wireless Internet access to
devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and mobile hotspots.
 Speeds: Cellular networks have evolved over generations (2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G), with each
generation offering faster data speeds. 5G, the latest standard, promises significantly higher
speeds and lower latency.

Considerations for Internet Connection:

1. Speed Requirements:
- Different activities, such as web browsing, video streaming, and online gaming, have
varying speed requirements. Users should choose an internet connection that meets their
specific needs.
2. Reliability:
- The reliability of an internet connection is crucial for uninterrupted online experiences.
Factors like downtime, latency, and packet loss can affect reliability.
3.Geographic Availability:
- The type of internet connection available can vary based on geographic location. While
urban areas often have access to a range of high-speed options, rural areas might have limited
choices.
4.Cost:
- Internet service providers offer different plans at varying costs. Users should consider
their budget and choose a plan that balances cost with the desired speed and reliability.

Connecting to Dial-up Internet Accounts:

Dial-up internet was one of the earliest methods of connecting to the Internet and
involves establishing a connection using a standard telephone line and a modem. While it has
become less common due to the prevalence of high-speed broadband technologies,
understanding its functioning is still valuable for historical context.
Components Involved:
1. Telephone Line:
Dial-up connections utilize a standard telephone line for transmitting data. The same line
used for making voice calls is employed for connecting to the Internet.
2. Modem (Modulator-Demodulator):
- *Description: The term "modem" is a combination of "modulator" and "demodulator." A
modem converts digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over the
analog telephone lines and vice versa. It modulates digital data into analog signals for
outbound transmission and demodulates incoming analog signals into digital data.
Cable Modems:
* Cable internet utilizes coaxial cables, the same medium for cable television signals, to
transmit data.

* Known for efficiency and consistency, cable modems offer high-speed internet access,
outpacing the speeds of ADSL and dial-up.

Connection Process:
1. Initiation: - To initiate a dial-up connection, a user typically launches the dial-up
software on their computer. This software establishes communication with the modem.
2. Dialing: - The modem dials a specific telephone number assigned by the Internet Service
Provider (ISP). This number connects to the ISP's server, creating a link between the user's
computer and the ISP.
3.Handshaking: - Once the call is answered, a handshaking process occurs between the
user's modem and the ISP's modem. This process involves the exchange of signals to ensure
both modems are compatible and ready for data transfer.
4. Authentication: - The user's credentials (username and password) are transmitted to the
ISP's server for authentication. This step ensures that the user has a valid account with the ISP.
5. Data Transmission: - After authentication, the dial-up connection is established, and data
can be transmitted between the user's computer and the ISP's server. The data is sent in the
form of analog signals over the telephone line.

Characteristics and Limitations:

1.Speed: - Dial-up connections are characterized by relatively slow speeds compared to
modern broadband technologies. The maximum speed typically reaches 56 kbps (kilobits per
second).
2. Occupied Phone Line: - While connected to the Internet, the phone line is occupied,
preventing simultaneous voice calls. This limitation is one reason why dial-up has become
less popular.
3. Connection Stability:
- Dial-up connections can be susceptible to disruptions due to factors like line noise and
interference, leading to potential dropped connections.
4. Obsolete Technology: - Advancements in technology have rendered dial-up largely
obsolete. Users now prefer high-speed broadband options that offer faster and more reliable
internet access.
While dial-up internet played a significant role in the early days of internet
connectivity, it has been largely surpassed by faster and more efficient technologies. The
introduction of broadband, including DSL, cable, and fiber-optic connections, has provided
users with significantly higher speeds and a more stable internet experience. Dial-up remains
a historical artifact, reminding us of the evolution of internet connectivity over time.
Certainly, let's delve into high-speed internet connections, specifically ISDN, ADSL, and
cable modes, in more detail.
1. ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network):
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is a set of communication standards for
simultaneously transmitting voice, video, and data over traditional telephone lines.
* ISDN is a digital communication technology facilitating the transmission of voice, video,
and data over traditional telephone lines.
* It offers faster speeds compared to dial-up, typically reaching 64 kbps or 128 kbps per
ISDN line.
* These are a set of communication standards for simultaneous digital transmission of voice,
video, data, and other network services over the traditional circuits of the public switched
telephone network.
* Before Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN), the telephone system was seen as a
way to transmit voice, with some special services available for data.
* The main feature of ISDN is that it can integrate speech and data on the same lines, which
were not available in the classic telephone system.
* ISDN is a circuit-switched telephone network system, but it also provides access to packet-
switched networks that allows digital transmission of voice and data. This results in
potentially better voice or data quality than an analog phone can provide.
* It provides a packet-switched connection for data in increments of 64 kilobit/s. It provided
a maximum of 128 kbit/s bandwidth in both upstream and downstream directions.
In the context of the OSI model, ISDN is employed as the network in data-link and physical
layers but commonly ISDN is often limited to usage to Q.931 and related protocols.
ISDN Interfaces:
The following are the interfaces of ISDN:
Basic Rate Interface (BRI) – There are two data-bearing channels (‘B’ channels)
and one signaling channel (‘D’ channel) in BRI to initiate connections. The B channels
operate at a maximum of 64 Kbps while the D channel operates at a maximum of 16 Kbps.
Primary Rate Interface (PRI) – Primary Rate Interface service consists of a D
channel and either 23 or 30 B channels
Broadband-ISDN (B-ISDN) – Narrowband ISDN has been designed to operate
over the current communications infrastructure, which is heavily dependent on the copper
cable however B-ISDN relies mainly on the evolution of fiber optics. According to CCITT
B-ISDN is best described as ‘a service requiring transmission channel

ISDN Services: ]
ISDN provides a fully integrated digital service to users. These services fall into 3
categories- bearer services, teleservices, and supplementary services.

Bearer Services –Transfer of information (voice, data, and video) between users without
the network manipulating the content of that information is provided by the bearer network.
Bearer services belong to the first three layers of the OSI model.
Supplementary Service – Additional functionality to the bearer services and teleservices
are provided by supplementary services. Reverse charging, call waiting, and message
handling are examples of supplementary services which are all familiar with today’s
telephone com
Key Features:
Digital Transmission: ISDN is a fully digital technology, which means that data is
transmitted in a digital format, eliminating the need for analog-to-digital conversion.
Multiple Channels: ISDN can use multiple channels (B-channels and D-channels) for data
transmission. B-channels carry user data, while D-channels are used for signaling and control.
High Speeds: ISDN provides relatively higher speeds compared to traditional dial-up
connections, typically offering speeds of 64 kbps (for one B-channel) or 128 kbps (for two B-
channels) per ISDN line.
Advantages:
- Faster speeds compared to dial-up.
- Supports multiple channels for simultaneous data, voice, and video transmission.
- Digital clarity in voice communication.
Disadvantages:
- Availability is limited in some regions.
- Costs may be higher compared to other high-speed options.
- Slower compared to more modern broadband technologies.
2. ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line):
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a digital communication technology
that utilizes existing copper telephone lines to provide high-speed internet access.
* ADSL, a digital subscriber line technology, employs existing telephone lines for
high-speed internet access.
* Characterized by asymmetric speeds, where download speeds surpass upload
speeds, ADSL is suitable for applications emphasizing more data retrieval than
uploading.
ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is the first technology of DSL
technologies. It is just like 56K modem that is able to provide a higher speed of data in the
downstream direction than in the upstream direction. That is the reason why its name is
Asymmetric DSL.
Discrete Multitone Technique :
The standard modulation technique for ADSL is Discrete Multitone Technique which
combines both QAM and FDM. There is the availability of 1.104 MHz bandwidth. It is
divided into 256 channels. The following is the distribution of bandwidth –

* IDLE –
1 to 5 channels are not used and these will provide a gap between voice and data
communication.

* Upstream Data and Control –

Channel 6 to 30 are used for upstream data transfer and control. One channel is used for
control and other 24 are used for data transfer.

* Downstream Data and Control –

Channels 31 to 255 are used for downstream data transfer and control. Like upstream in this
also one channel is used for control and other 224 are used for data transfer.

* Customer Site : ADSL Modem

The ADSL Modem is installed at a customer’s site. In this local loop connects to a splitter
which is used to separate voice and data communication. Modulation and Demodulation are
done using DMT and it creates separate downstream and upstream channels.
Key Features:
Asymmetric Speeds: ADSL is characterized by asymmetric speeds, meaning that the
download speed is faster than the upload speed. This is well-suited for applications where
users typically download more data than they upload.
Filters and Splitters: ADSL uses filters and splitters to separate voice and data signals,
allowing users to use the telephone and access the internet simultaneously.
Distance Dependent: The speed of ADSL is dependent on the distance from the telephone
exchange. Users closer to the exchange generally experience higher speeds.
Advantages:
- Widely available in urban and suburban areas.
- Allows simultaneous use of voice and data services.
- Cost-effective compared to some alternatives.
Disadvantages:
- Speeds can degrade with distance from the telephone exchange.
- Upload speeds are generally slower than download speeds.
3. Cable Modems:
Cable modems provide internet access by using the same coaxial cables that
deliver
cable television signals.
Key Features:
Shared Bandwidth: Cable internet operates on a shared bandwidth, meaning that
multiple users in the same neighborhood share the available data capacity. This can lead to
potential slowdowns during peak usage times.
High Speeds: Cable modems are known for providing high-speed internet access, and
the actual speed can vary depending on the service plan.
Consistent Performance: Cable internet typically offers consistent and reliable
performance compared to some other technologies.

Advantages:
- High-speed internet access.
- Suitable for bandwidth-intensive activities such as streaming and online gaming.
- Widespread availability in urban and suburban areas.
Disadvantages:
- Speed can be affected by the number of users on the local network.
- Limited availability in rural or remote areas.
Intranet

The intranet is a private network that belongs to a particular

organization.
It is designed for the exclusive use of an organization and its
associates, such as employees, customers, and other authorized
people.
It offers a secure platform to convey information and share data with
authorized users.
Confidential information, database, links, forms, and applications can
be made available to the staff through the intranet. So, it is like a
private internet or an internal website that is operating within an
organization to provide its employees access to its information and
records.
Each computer in intranet is identified by a unique IP Address.
It is based on internet protocols (TCP/IP) and is protected from
unauthorized access with firewalls and other security systems.
Furthermore, to access the intranet, the authorized user is required to
be connected to its LAN (Local Area Network).

Benefits of the intranet:

Some of the benefits of the intranet are:
o It is cheap and easy to implement and run, and is more safe than the
internet and EXTRANET.
o It streamlines communication that enables the company to share its data,
information, and other resources among employees without any delay. The
entire staff can receive company's announcements, ask questions, and
access internal documents.
o It provides a secure space to store and develop applications to support
business operations.
o It improves the efficiency of the company by speeding up workflow and
reducing errors. Thus, it helps achieve targets by completing the tasks on
time.
 o It offers a testing platform for new ideas before they are uploaded on the
company's internet webpage. Thus, it helps maintain the credibility of the
company
o Information is shared in real-time, or updates are reflected immediately to all
the authorized users.
o Modern intranets also offer a mobile app that allows employees to stay
connected on the go.
o It aids in project management and tracking workflow and teams' progress.
o It can work with mobile devices, which means it can provide information
that exists on intranet directly to mobile devices of employees such as
phones, tablets, etc.
o It can also be used to motivate employees, facilitate employee recognition,
and to reward them for performing beyond expectations.

Features of intranet

Intranets are powerful tools that offer various features to enhance internal
communication, collaboration, and organizational productivity. Let's delve
into some key features of an intranet and their benefits in simple language.

o Document Management and Sharing: An intranet provides a centralized

repository for storing and sharing documents.
o Internal Communication Tools: Intranets offer a range of communication
tools like messaging systems, discussion forums, and chat platforms.
Employee Directories and Profiles: Intranets often include employee
directories and profiles, which serve as digital databases of staff information.
Task and Project Management: Intranets provide tools for managing tasks
and projects.
o News and Announcements: Intranets often have a dedicated section for
news and announcements.
o Collaboration Spaces and Wikis: Intranets may include spaces or wikis
where teams can collaborate on specific projects, share knowledge, and
create a collective knowledge base.

How the Intranet Works:

Intranet basically comprises three components: a web server, an intranet

platform, and applications. The web server is hardware that contains all the
intranet software and data. It manages all requests for files hosted over the
server and finds the requested files and then delivers it to the user's

computer.

The intranet platform, which is software, allows communication tools,

collaboration apps, and databases to work seamlessly with each other. It is
tailored to the specific needs of a business.

The applications are required to enable users to work smoothly. They are the
computing tools that allow users to do their work, communicate, and
coordinate with each other and retrieve and store information.

Furthermore, the user who wants to access the intranet is required to have
a special network password and should be connected to the LAN. A user
who is working remotely can gain access to the intranet through a virtual
private network (VPN) that allows them to sign in to the intranet to access
the information.

Types of Intranets

Several intranet types are available to meet organizations' unique

requirements and preferences. Let's investigate the various intranet types.

1. Corporate Intranet: A corporate intranet is the main platform for internal

communication and cooperation inside a firm.
2. Departmental Intranet: Departmental intranets are made to meet the
needs of certain teams or departments inside an organization.
3. Enterprise Intranet: An enterprise intranet connects multiple organizations
or subsidiaries within a larger corporate structure.
4. Virtual Private Intranet (VPN): Remote workers can safely access an
intranet's internal resources via a Virtual Private Network (VPN). The data
transmission between the remote user and the intranet server is encrypted when a
VPN establishes a secure connection over the internet.
 5.Extranet-Enabled Intranet: An extranet-enabled intranet extends access to
external parties, such as clients, partners, or vendors, to specific intranet sections
with proper authorization.

6.Cloud-Based Intranet: A cloud-based intranet is accessed via web browsers or

specific apps and is hosted on a cloud computing platform.

Uses of Intranet

An intranet is a versatile tool that offers several uses to organizations,

improving internal communication, collaboration, and productivity. Let's
elaborate on the key uses of an intranet in simple language:

o Sharing Organizational Updates: An intranet provides a centralized

platform to share important news, announcements, and updates within the
organization.
o Storing Files: One of the primary uses of an intranet is to serve as a central
repository for storing and organizing files and documents.
o Connecting Employees: An intranet acts as a digital hub that connects
employees across different departments, teams, and locations within the
organization.
o Collaborating with Teams Across Borders: Intranets facilitate seamless
collaboration and project management among teams, irrespective of
geographical boundaries.
o Increasing Productivity: By providing easy access to information, resources,
and tools, an intranet boosts employee productivity.
o Giving Employees a Voice in the Organization: An intranet can include
discussion forums, surveys, and feedback mechanisms that empower employees
to share their opinions, ideas, and suggestions.
Difference between Intranet and Internet:

Internet Intranet

It is a medium such as optical fiber cable It is a small, private network as

that connects billions of computers with it belongs to a specific
each other to establish a worldwide organization.
network.

It has billions of users as it is a public It has limited users.

network with a worldwide presence.

It is not as safe as an intranet. It is a safer network than the

internet.

It can be assessed or used by anyone Only authorized persons can

using an internet-enable devices, such as use this network.
laptop, mobile phone, etc.

It offers a wide range of information, such It offers limited information

as news, blogs, websites, etc. related to its organization's
work, policies, updates, etc.

It is not owned by a single person or an It can be owned by a person or

organization. an organization.

Extranet

Extranet is a part of an organization's intranet. It is a communication

network that is based on internet protocols (TCP/IP). It provides controlled
access to firm's intranet to its trading partners, customers, and other
businesses. So, it is a private network that securely shares internal
information and operations of a firm with authorized people outside the firm
without giving access to the company's entire network. The users are
required to have IDs, passwords, and other authentication mechanisms

access this network.