What is meant by ‘Network Effects’ in the context of Porter’s ‘Threat of Entry’ force?

Reference: Strategic Management (5e) – Frank T. Rothaermel (Pg 85)

Network effects are defined as the cumulative positive effects that a large number of users can have on a product or a firm. Increasing the number of users leads to an increase in the value of the product and thus is an example of a positive externality. Network effects work in favor of incumbent firms since it reduces the Threat of Entry force.

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