netgebonden

Netgebonden is a Dutch adjective used to describe objects, systems or processes that are connected to and dependent on a network. The sense of net can refer to a computer or communications network (such as the internet or an intranet) or to an electrical distribution grid, depending on the domain. The core idea is dependency or linkage to an external network that influences operation, functionality, or stability.

In information and communications technology, netgebonden typically refers to software, services or devices that require a network connection to function fully. Netgebonden applications rely on remote servers, cloud services or other networked resources. They may experience degraded performance or become unusable when there is no connectivity. In contrast, offline or stand-alone systems are not netgebonden.

In energy and utilities, netgebonden designates equipment or installations that are connected to the public electricity grid. Examples include grid-tied solar photovoltaic installations, energy storage systems that interact with the grid, or devices that depend on grid electricity for operation. Such systems may be subject to grid rules, metering, and safety standards, and their operation can be influenced by grid conditions.

Etymology and usage notes: the term derives from net (network) and gebonden (bound). It is commonly encountered in Dutch technical discussions, though it is not a formal standard term across all domains. In some contexts, alternative terms such as netgekoppeld or grid-connected may be used to convey a similar meaning.