Partner connectivity: Internet-like private networks linking a company with external business partners are best described as which of the following?

Introduction / Context:
Organizations extend selected internal resources to suppliers, distributors, and customers using web technologies and secure access controls. This controlled external sharing is architected differently from purely internal networks. The question probes the correct naming convention for such networks.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Connectivity is Internet-like (TCP/IP, web protocols).
• Participants include outside business partners, not only internal staff.
• Security, authentication, and limited resource exposure are assumed.

Concept / Approach:

An extranet is an extension of an organization's intranet selectively opened to external parties. It uses the same technologies as intranets (HTTP/S, VPNs, directory services) but enforces strict access control to protect sensitive assets while enabling collaboration and data exchange across firm boundaries.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Reference standard enterprise architectures where supplier portals and customer portals are implemented as extranets providing controlled access to ERP, ordering, and support systems.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Bandwidth alternatives / Switching alternating: Not recognized architectural terms for partner networks.
• Inter organizational networks: Descriptive but not the canonical term; extranet is the accepted name.
• Intranets: Strictly internal networks, not extended to partners.

Common Pitfalls:

Using intranet as a catch-all. The distinction hinges on whether external entities authenticate into the organization's environment.

Final Answer:

Extranets