Infonet
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| Typical Infonet interface on a civilian browser, specifically that of the Infonet Voyager program. |
An Infonet (variably stylized as InfoNet or INFONET) is a form of limited-use long-range digital civilian communications network. While originally applicable solely to its eponymous Coalition communications system, the term has generally grown to also include the various offshoot communication networks that have been developed by rival geopolitical blocs.
Its original iteration was developed in 0033 R.C. as a derivative of preexisting CFA military communications systems. Its initial role served to facilitate the relaying of electronic mail between Plateia and its first batches of colonies, as various other forms of delivery (both physical and electronic) had previously proven cumbersome, nonstandard and impractical. However, the CCN's INFONET would later grow to include additional systems such as bulletin board systems and message boards. While not necessarily having a broad appeal, these aspects of INFONET have attracted various demographics with the practicality of easy, near-instant communication, as well as like-minded individuals sharing common interests. In the case of the Coalition INFONET, it has also become something of a security concern, as the threat of spacer movements organizing and coordinating through such communication networks has not been ruled out.