The Indian Financial Network (INFINET) is a Closed User Group (CUG) Network for the exclusive use of Member Banks and Financial Institutions. It was set up by the Reserve Bank in 1999 through the Institute for Development and Research in Banking and Technology (IDRBT) Hyderabad. The Institute explored capability, methods, procedure to expand the network using a blend of communication technologies such as VSATs and Terrestrial Leased Lines. In order to have a careful combination of technologies in the INFINET, a Leased Line Network (LLN), connecting 21 major cities has been seamlessly integrated with it. The LLN is a mix of 2 Mbps and 64 Kbps lines. The LLN provides gateways to banks from each of these 21 cities. The Network Management System (NMS) of the LLN is located at the INFINET Hub at Hyderabad. The Backup NMS is located in the Main Office of RBI in Mumbai
Among various inter-bank and intra-bank applications ranging from simple messaging, MIS, EFT (Retail), Electronic Clearing Service (ECS) for both Credits and Debits, online dealing and trading in Government securities, Centralized Funds Management System(CFMS) for Banks and Financial Institutions, Anywhere banking/Anytime Banking (ATM), Inter-Branch Reconciliation, Structured Financial Messaging System (SFMS) and Electronic Funds transfer (RTGS/NEFT) System, transmission of Inter-city Cheque Realisation advices, government securities trading, and currency chest accounting are done through this service. VSAT technology service can also be used for one-way and/or interactive communications via satellite. Presently, the network consists of over 950 VSATs located in 127 cities of the country. All Banks and financial institutions in the country are eligible to become members of the INFINET.
