vernetzter

Vernetzter is a German attributive adjective formed from the verb vernetzen, meaning to network or interconnect. It describes something that is connected to a network or part of a network. As a declined form, vernetzter can function as an attributive modifier in masculine nominative singular, as in ein vernetzter Rechner; in other cases it takes the appropriate ending (vernetzte, vernetztes, vernetzten) according to article and case. In plural phrases the form becomes vernetzte, as in vernetzte Geräte.

Common contexts for the term are information technology and communications, where vernetzter describes devices, systems or processes that are connected to a network, enabling data exchange and remote management. Typical usages include vernetzte Geräte (networked devices), vernetzter Arbeitsplatz (networked workplace) and vernetzte Sensorik. In sociology, economics and urban planning the term is used to describe a networked society or infrastructure, for example vernetzte Gesellschaft, vernetzte Infrastruktur or vernetzte Stadt. The concept is central to discussions of the Internet of Things, digitalization and smart grids.

Usage notes and related terms: The form vernetzter is primarily attributive; the predicative form is vernetzt: Die Geräte sind vernetzt. The corresponding noun is Vernetzung, referring to the process or result of networking. The word is common in technical, policy and media contexts and is often paired with nouns that indicate the network or system being connected.