Business Networks: Intranet, Internet, and Extranet

Prepared by: NDALA NSENGA EUNICE

Date: 2/23/2025

I. Introduction to Business Networks

Modern businesses rely on interconnected digital systems to communicate, collaborate, and operate
efficiently. Three core networks enable these activities:

1. Intranet
2. Internet
3. Extranet

Key Objectives of This Presentation:

 Define and differentiate intranet, internet, and extranet.

 Highlight use cases, benefits, and challenges.
 Discuss security considerations.
 Explore integration strategies for business success.

II. Intranet: The Internal Network

II.1. Definition

A private network accessible only to an organization’s employees, used to share resources, tools, and
information internally.

II.2. Key Features

 Access: Restricted to authorized users (e.g., employees via login credentials).

  Purpose:
 Centralize internal communication (e.g., company announcements).
 Host collaborative tools (e.g., SharePoint, Slack).
 Store sensitive documents (e.g., HR policies, project files).
 Security: Firewalls, VPNs, and role-based access controls.

II.3. Use Cases

1. Internal Collaboration:
 Teams use Microsoft Teams or Google Workspace for real-time collaboration.
2. Document Management:
 Storing SOPs, training materials, and compliance records.
3. Employee Portals:
 Self-service HR platforms for payroll, leave requests, and benefits.

II.4. PROS VS CONS

PROS CONS

Enhanced data security Limited to internal users

Streamlined workflows Requires IT maintenance
Customizable to business needs Risk of outdated content
 III. Internet: The Global Network
III.1 Definition

A public, global network connecting billions of devices worldwide, enabling access to websites, cloud
services, and external communication.

II.2. Key Features

 Access: Open to anyone with an internet connection.

 Purpose:
 Facilitate customer engagement (e.g., e-commerce, social media).
 Enable cloud computing (e.g., AWS, Azure).
 Support remote work via web-based tools.

 Security: HTTPS, encryption, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).

III.3 Use Cases

1. E-Commerce:
 Amazon uses the internet to sell products globally.
2. Digital Marketing:
 Social media campaigns (e.g., Instagram ads).
3. Cloud Services:
 SaaS platforms like Salesforce or Zoom.
III.4 Pros vs. Cons

PROS CONS
Global reach High cybersecurity risks
Cost-effective scalability Dependency on ISPs
Real-time customer interaction Privacy concerns

IV. Extranet: The Partner Network

IV.1. Definition

A secure, semi-private network that allows external partners (e.g., suppliers, clients) to access select parts
of an organization’s intranet.

IV.2. Key Features

 Access: Limited to approved external users (e.g., vendors, contractors).

 Purpose:

 Share supply chain data (e.g., inventory levels).

 Collaborate on projects with external stakeholders.
 Provide client portals for order tracking.

 Security: VPNs, SSL certificates, and audit logs.

IV.3. Use Cases
1. Supply Chain Management:
 Walmart’s extranet lets suppliers monitor stock levels.
2. B2B Collaboration:
 Automotive companies share design specs with parts manufacturers.
3. Client Portals:
 Banks offer extranet portals for corporate clients to manage accounts.

IV.4 Pros vs. Cons

PROS CONS

Strengthens partner relationships Complex access management

Reduces communication delays High setup costs
Enhances transparency | Risk of data breaches

V. Comparing the Three Networks

Aspect Intranet Internet Extranet

Access Internal employees Public Approved external

only partners
Security High (firewalls, VPNs) Moderate (HTTPS, High (SSL, role-based
MFA) access)
Primary Use Internal collaboration Global communication Partner collaboration
Example Tools SharePoint, Slack AWS, Shopify Vendor portals, SAP
Aribna

VI. Security Challenges & Solutions

VI.1. Intranet

 Challenges: Insider threats, outdated software.

 Solutions: Regular audits, endpoint protection.

VI.2. Internet

 Challenges: Phishing, DDoS attacks.

 Solutions: Firewalls, employee cybersecurity training.

VI.3. Extranet

 Challenges: Unauthorized access, data leaks.

 Solutions: Multi-factor authentication, encrypted connections.

VII. Integrating Networks for Business Success

Example Scenario: A retail company uses:

 Intranet for internal HR and inventory management.

 Extranet to connect with suppliers for restocking.
 Internet to sell products online and engage customers.

VIII. Conclusion

 Intranet, Internet, and Extranet serve distinct but complementary roles.

 Businesses must balance accessibility, security, and scalability.
 Emerging technologies will reshape how these networks operate.
Table des matières
I. Introduction to Business Networks ....................................................................................................... 1
II. Intranet: The Internal Network ............................................................................................................. 1
II.1. Definition .......................................................................................................................................... 1
II.2. Key Features...................................................................................................................................... 1
II.3. Use Cases .......................................................................................................................................... 2
II.4. PROS VS CONS ............................................................................................................................... 2
III. Internet: The Global Network ................................................................................................................. 3
III.1 Definition .......................................................................................................................................... 3
II.2. Key Features...................................................................................................................................... 3
III.3 Use Cases .......................................................................................................................................... 3
III.4 Pros vs. Cons..................................................................................................................................... 4
IV. Extranet: The Partner Network ......................................................................................................... 4
IV.1. Definition ......................................................................................................................................... 4
IV.2. Key Features .................................................................................................................................... 4
IV.3. Use Cases ......................................................................................................................................... 5
IV.4 Pros vs. Cons .................................................................................................................................... 5
V. Comparing the Three Networks ............................................................................................................ 5
VI. Security Challenges & Solutions ...................................................................................................... 5
VI.1. Intranet ............................................................................................................................................. 6
VI.2. Internet ............................................................................................................................................. 6
VI.3. Extranet ............................................................................................................................................ 6
VII. Integrating Networks for Business Success ...................................................................................... 6
VIII. Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................ 6