What term refers to a network that allows secure access for external parties such as customers and suppliers?

The term that refers to a network allowing secure access for external parties, such as customers and suppliers, is known as an extranet. An extranet is an extension of an organization’s intranet and it provides controlled access to specific external users. This is particularly useful for businesses that need to collaborate or share information with stakeholders outside their primary organization, while still maintaining security and privacy for their internal data.

By granting selective access, companies can improve communication and efficiency with external partners. For example, suppliers may access inventory systems, while customers might track orders or access support systems. This setup not only strengthens partnerships but also enhances customer experience.

In contrast, an intranet is a private network within an organization, primarily meant for internal use. The internet is a global network that connects millions of private, public, academic, business, and government networks, offering no secure access specifically for external parties of one organization. A local area network (LAN) is a smaller network typically covering a limited area like an office or a building, primarily designed for connecting devices within that vicinity. Thus, these other terms do not encompass the specific function of secure external access that an extranet provides.