What is the function of an extranet?

The function of an extranet is to provide secure access to authorized outside users. This means that an extranet is essentially an extension of a company's intranet that allows specific external parties—such as business partners, suppliers, or clients—to access certain resources or information.

This secure connection enables collaboration and communication with external entities while maintaining a level of security to protect sensitive internal data. It facilitates sharing of information, such as project updates, documents, or data that are necessary for joint operations without compromising internal systems. By controlling access through authentication measures, organizations can ensure that only the right external users have the ability to view or interact with specified data, making it a valuable tool for fostering partnerships and enhancing business processes.

In contrast, the other options focus on functions that are not characteristic of an extranet, such as storing internal databases, managing in-house operations, or replacing an intranet, which underscore the exclusive role of an extranet in providing secure access to external stakeholders.