SharePoint is a Microsoft framework for the purpose of building websites and apps to exchange information. It is also a platform for (internal) data streams. An intranet is an example of this. One of the most important parts of SharePoint are its libraries and archives in which data and documents can be stored and retrieved.
SharePoint is developed for Windows, Microsoft's own operating system. The framework is built based on programming languages like .NET and SQL. These languages provide secure storage and exchange of data. SharePoint is used by companies and educational institutions for example to provide students and teachers with a private working environment.
For data exchange platforms and Intranets, various software packages are available. This ranges from free to paid versions. Microsoft SharePoint offers packages in both categories, free versions that are available in conjunction with standard Windows installations, and paid versions that relate to Microsoft Office packages. Paid versions are generally more up to date and regularly improved.
