Extranet A network that links the intranets of business partners using the virtually private network on the Internet. Firewall A network node consisting of both hardware and software that isolates a private network from public networks. Horizontal markets Broad marketplaces that provide the same purchasing solution across several industries. A lightweight, stateless protocol that web browsers and web servers use to communicate with one another. In order for one computer to send a request or a response to another computer on the Internet, the request or response must be divided into packets that are labeled with the addresses of the sending and receiving computers.
Internet protocol formats the packets and assigns the addresses.
Private companies supplying local and regional connections to the Internet and providing individuals and businesses with Internet access for a fee. Net market maker Also called vertical portal or vortal. Online intermediary that connects buyers and sellers. Nonrepudiation One of the cornerstones of secure Internet communications, referring to the fact that the sender of a message cannot deny that he or she actually sent the message. Online community Internet community of people who share the same interests and gather to share information and collaborate online.