An Intranet is a computer network that uses the same technology and protocols as the Internet but is restricted to certain users. For example a big UK company like Boots, may have an Intranet in their main offices that is only available to employees of Boots. To join an Intranet, some form of user authentication will usually be required. External access to the Internet is not always provided, and if it is, a firewall would need to be implemented to avoid external access to the Intranet. The key advantages of a Intranet, are, easy access of company data to employees, communication between employees in large organisations is improved, manuals etc can simple be printed on a web page, instead of on numerous printed documents, therefore saving money.