Extranets and intranets are both examples of private networks that work to provide internet for various technologies, including SharePoint. For a better understanding, let’s compare and contrast the two concepts.
What’s in a name?
By definition, an extranet is a type of private network that works by leveraging public telecommunication systems and internet technology to share information or operations for businesses. This occurs within a secure system that includes customers, partners, suppliers, vendors, and other businesses.
Comparatively, an intranet is also a private network, but this one allows the staff and employees of an enterprise to share information securely within the company itself. As the prefix “intra” suggests, an intranet was designed to work only for internal communications.
So what’s the difference?
Similarities
- Allow for the storage and sharing capabilities of group information, including
- Documents
- Projects
- Calendars
- Allow for ease of collaboration amongst employees, customers, partners and workforces
- Increases productivity
Differences
- The two network types work in different accessible areas
- Intranets are accessible within companies
- Extranets can function globally through a secure connection
- The permissions work differently
- Intranets have an admin that assigns the rights and permissions to access the server
- Extranets are usually restricted to external users and gained through a VPN