What does intranet mean?
An intranet is a private computer network that connects devices and services within an organization or other authorized group. Unlike the public internet, it is normally accessible only to members who have been granted credentials or permission. Organizations use intranets to host staff directories, internal news, policy documents, payroll tools, shared applications, and collaboration systems. The word is also used more broadly to describe restricted online communities and services, including those used by universities, hospitals, companies, and government agencies. “Corporate intranet” and “company intranet” are common constructions, while “intranet portal” usually refers to a gateway through which employees access internal resources. Although access is restricted, an intranet is still a network: it may connect several offices, remote workers, servers, and other authorized devices. Its defining feature is its limited audience and organizational purpose rather than the absence of internet technology.
nounA private computer network that is accessible only to authorized users, typically within an organization.
- A private network used within an organization or other authorized group.
"The staff directory and internal announcements are available on the company intranet."
"Employees can access the payroll portal through the intranet."
"The university intranet provides students with registration and course information."
The plural is grammatically correct but relatively uncommon; definite references are often expressed with singular terms such as “the company intranet.”
"The two organizations operate separate intranets for staff and partner institutions."
An intranet lets an organization share information freely behind a locked digital door.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does intranet come from?
The word was formed in the late 20th century by combining the prefix “intra-,” meaning “within,” with “net,” an abbreviation of “network.” The prefix comes from Latin intra, meaning “inside” or “within,” and is related to interior and internal. The compound deliberately contrasts with “internet,” which uses inter-, meaning “between,” and denotes the worldwide public network.
Related word forms
How intranet is actually used
The term is primarily used in business, government, education, and other organizational contexts. It denotes restricted access rather than merely a network hosted on private infrastructure; some internal systems may also be publicly reachable.
Easily confused with intranet
An intranet is a restricted network for an organization or group, whereas the internet is the global public network connecting millions of networks.