Internet vs. Intranet — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 20, 2023
The Internet is a global network that connects computers worldwide, providing public access to information and communication. Intranet is a private network restricted to a specific organization or location.
Difference Between Internet and Intranet
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The Internet is a vast, publicly accessible system of interconnected computer networks that transmit data by packet switching using standardized Internet Protocol (IP). Intranet, however, is a private network confined to a single organization or geographic location.
The Internet serves as a platform for a plethora of services, such as email, social networking, and e-commerce. Intranet primarily focuses on internal communication, data sharing, and project collaboration within an organization.
While Internet services are generally accessible to anyone with an Internet connection, Intranet services are restricted to authorized personnel within an organization. Security measures for the Internet can vary greatly, while intranets often have strong, centralized security protocols.
In terms of governance, the Internet is decentralized and subject to international standards. Intranet is usually controlled by the IT department of the organization that owns it, making it a centralized network.
Comparison Chart
Accessibility
Publicly accessible
Restricted to a specific group
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Purpose
Information sharing, communication
Internal communication
Security
Varies, often less stringent
Centralized, often stronger
Governance
Decentralized
Centralized
Scale
Global
Organizational or local
Compare with Definitions
Internet
An interconnected web of networks using Internet Protocol.
The Internet is made up of millions of networks.
Intranet
A private network within an organization.
I uploaded the document to the company intranet.
Internet
A global network connecting computers worldwide.
I searched the Internet for the recipe.
Intranet
An internal platform for project collaboration.
We track project milestones on the intranet.
Internet
A decentralized system for data exchange.
The Internet has revolutionized communication.
Intranet
A secure network for organizational resource sharing.
The intranet helps us share files securely.
Internet
A platform for digital services like email and web browsing.
I sent the file over the Internet.
Intranet
A restricted-access network for internal communication.
We use the intranet for internal memos.
Internet
A medium for public communication and information sharing.
You can find almost anything on the Internet.
Intranet
A localized, centralized system for data sharing.
The HR department updated the policies on the intranet.
Internet
The Internet (or internet) is the global system of interconnected computer networks that uses the Internet protocol suite (TCP/IP) to communicate between networks and devices. It is a network of networks that consists of private, public, academic, business, and government networks of local to global scope, linked by a broad array of electronic, wireless, and optical networking technologies.
Intranet
An intranet is a computer network for sharing information, collaboration tools, operational systems, and other computing services within an organization, usually to the exclusion of access by outsiders. The term is used in contrast to public networks, such as the Internet, but uses most of the same technology based on the Internet Protocol Suite.A company-wide intranet can constitute an important focal point of internal communication and collaboration, and provide a single starting point to access internal and external resources.
Internet
A publicly accessible system of networks that connects computers around the world via the TCP/IP protocol.
Intranet
A privately maintained computer network that can be accessed only by authorized persons, especially members or employees of the organization that owns it.
Internet
Alternative case form of Internet
Intranet
(computing) A private computer network, typically one that uses the protocols of the Internet.
Internet
(uncountable) Internet access or connection; internet connectivity.
Do you have internet at your place? My internet is down and I want to check my email.
Hello everyone, this is your daily dose of internet.
Intranet
A restricted computer network; a private network created using World Wide Web software
Internet
(countable)
Internet
Any set of computer networks that communicate using the Internet Protocol; an intranet.
Internet
A fictitious unit of scoring awarded for making outstanding posts on the internet.
Internet
To use the Internet; specifically, to search for information using the Internet.
Having no idea what that means, I am internetting like mad.
Internet
To entwine or link (several things) together, so as to form a network; to interconnect, to network.
Internet
To connect (a computer, an electronic device, etc.) into a computer network (in particular, the Internet).
Internet
A large network{3} of numerous computers connected through a number of major nodes of high-speed computers having high-speed communications channels between the major nodes, and numerous minor nodes allowing electronic communication among millions of computers around the world; - usually referred to as the internet. It is the basis for the World-Wide Web.
Internet
A computer network consisting of a worldwide network of computer networks that use the TCP/IP network protocols to facilitate data transmission and exchange
Common Curiosities
What is the Internet?
The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that facilitates data exchange and communication.
Is the Internet secure?
Security on the Internet can vary and depends on individual websites and services.
Who can access the Internet?
Anyone with a device and connection can access the Internet.
Who can access an Intranet?
Access to an Intranet is typically restricted to authorized personnel within an organization.
Is an Intranet secure?
Intranets usually have strong, centralized security measures in place.
Who governs the Internet?
The Internet is decentralized and subject to international standards.
What is an Intranet?
An Intranet is a private network restricted to a specific organization or location.
What can you do on the Internet?
The Internet offers a wide range of services like browsing, emailing, shopping, and much more.
Who governs an Intranet?
An Intranet is typically governed by the IT department of the organization that owns it.
What is the scale of the Internet?
The Internet is a global network accessible worldwide.
What is the scale of an Intranet?
An Intranet is usually localized to a particular organization or geographic location.
What is the primary use of an Intranet?
The primary use of an Intranet is for internal communication and data sharing within an organization.
Can I access an Intranet from home?
Some organizations allow remote access to their Intranet through secure channels.
Is the Internet faster than an Intranet?
Not necessarily; the speed of both depends on various factors like bandwidth and server capability.
Do I need special software for Intranet?
Some Intranets may require specific software or configurations for access.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
