Information Technology

Grade 9
Topic computer networks

OBJECTIVE:

1.   Describe the network communication technologies

Recap

1. What is a network?
2. State the types of network.

Network Communication Technologies include Intranet, Extranet and Internet. 

INTRANET

An intranet is a private network that is contained within an enterprise/business. It may

consist of many interlinked local area networks (LANs) and also use leased lines in the wide
area network (WAN). Typically, an intranet includes connections through one or
more gateway (a hardware device that act as a “gate” between two networks, e.g a router or
firewall) computers to the outside Internet.
The main purpose of an intranet is to share company information and computing resources
among employees. An intranet can also be used to facilitate working in groups and for
teleconferences. Other applications on the intranet are electronic telephone directories,
employee information, internal job openings and email address etc.
Example of an Intranet, all NCB workers are able to communication with each other via the
software Microsoft Outlook. They can also get updated information on upcoming events and
receive memos.

EXTRANET

An extranet is a private network that uses Internet technology and the public

telecommunication system to share part of a business’s information or operations with
suppliers, vendors, partners, customers, or other businesses. An extranet can be viewed as
part of a company’s intranet that is extended to users outside the company. An extranet
requires security and privacy.
Businesses use extranet to share product catalogs exclusively with wholesalers or those “in
the trade” as well as provide or access services provided by one company to a group of other
companies
Example, NCB allows customers to have access to their banking information online. They are
able to transfer funds and pay bills.

INTERNET
The Internet, sometimes called simply “the Net,” is a worldwide system of computer
networks – a network of networks in which users at any one computer can, if they have
permission, get information from any other computer (and sometimes talk directly to users at
other computers).
The Internet is a public, cooperative and self-sustaining facility accessible to hundreds of
millions of people worldwide. The Internet links millions of individuals, businesses,
educational institution and government agencies.  Internet users have access to email, chat
rooms, instant messaging among other service. ♣