Network vs. Internet — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 22, 2023
A Network is a collection of computers and devices connected for data sharing, while the Internet is a global system of interconnected networks.
Difference Between Network and Internet
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A Network can be visualized as interconnected computers and devices within a specific area or organization, facilitating data communication among them. The Internet, on the other hand, is vast, encompassing countless networks worldwide, enabling global communication and data exchange.
While a Network might be limited to a home, office, or institution, the Internet includes all these individual networks, creating a massive web of interconnected systems. It's this vastness that differentiates the local or private nature of a Network from the global expanse of the Internet.
Network setups can vary in complexity, from simple peer-to-peer connections to intricate configurations involving servers, routers, and switches. The Internet, conversely, is the epitome of complexity with innumerable networks, protocols, and data routes.
One could have a Network without accessing the Internet. For example, an isolated intranet within a company might not have external connectivity. However, the Internet inherently implies a colossal network of networks, connecting diverse systems worldwide.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Collection of interconnected computers and devices
Global system of interconnected networks
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Scope
Can be local or organizational
Always global
Dependency
Can exist without the Internet
Comprises various networks
Examples
Home networks, office intranets
World Wide Web, global data exchange
Primary Function
Data sharing within the network
Global communication and data sharing across networks
Compare with Definitions
Network
A system of interconnected computers and devices.
The office Network facilitates seamless data sharing among employees.
Internet
A vast medium for information exchange and communication.
The advent of the Internet changed the dynamics of business and leisure.
Network
Interconnected entities for communication or distribution.
The transportation Network ensures efficient cargo movement.
Internet
The worldwide network using the TCP/IP protocol suite.
The Internet has revolutionized how we communicate and access information.
Network
Arrangement of intersecting lines or pathways.
The subway Network connects various parts of the city.
Internet
A global system of interconnected computer networks.
Billions access the Internet daily for information and communication.
Network
An openwork fabric or structure in which cords, threads, or wires cross at regular intervals.
Internet
The digital space hosting websites and online services.
The Internet offers myriad resources, from online courses to e-commerce platforms.
Network
A system of lines or channels that cross or interconnect
A network of railroads.
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.
Network
A complex, interconnected group or system
An espionage network.
Internet
A publicly accessible system of networks that connects computers around the world via the TCP/IP protocol.
Network
An extended group of people with similar interests or concerns who interact and remain in informal contact for mutual assistance or support.
Internet
Alternative case form of Internet
Network
A chain of radio or television broadcasting stations linked by wire or microwave relay.
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.
Network
A company that produces the programs for these stations.
Internet
(countable)
Network
A group or system of electric components and connecting circuitry designed to function in a specific manner.
Internet
Any set of computer networks that communicate using the Internet Protocol; an intranet.
Network
(Computers) A system of computers interconnected by telephone wires or other means in order to share information. Also called net1.
Internet
A fictitious unit of scoring awarded for making outstanding posts on the internet.
Network
To cover with an openwork fabric or structure.
Internet
To use the Internet; specifically, to search for information using the Internet.
Having no idea what that means, I am internetting like mad.
Network
To broadcast over a radio or television network.
Internet
To entwine or link (several things) together, so as to form a network; to interconnect, to network.
Network
To interconnect as components in a group or system.
Internet
To connect (a computer, an electronic device, etc.) into a computer network (in particular, the Internet).
Network
(Computers) To connect (computers) into a network.
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.
Network
To interact or engage in informal communication with others for mutual assistance or support.
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
Network
A fabric or structure of fibrous elements attached to each other at regular intervals.
Internet
The infrastructure enabling global digital connectivity.
With the Internet, even remote areas can connect to the world.
Network
Any interconnected group or system
A network of roads crisscrossed the country.
Network
A directory of people maintained for their advancement
To get a job in today's economy, it is important to have a strong network.
Network
(broadcasting) A group of affiliated television stations that broadcast common programs from a parent company.
Network
Multiple computers and other devices connected together to share information
The copy machine is connected to the network so it can now serve as a printer.
Network
(intransitive) To interact socially for the purpose of getting connections or personal advancement.
Many people find it worthwhile to network for jobs and information.
Network
(transitive) To connect two or more computers or other computerized devices.
If we network his machine to the server, he will be able to see all the files.
Network
(transitive) To interconnect a group or system.
Network
To broadcast across an entire network of stations and affiliates at the same time.
Network
A fabric of threads, cords, or wires crossing each other at certain intervals, and knotted or secured at the crossings, thus leaving spaces or meshes between them.
Network
Any system of lines or channels interlacing or crossing like the fabric of a net; as, a network of veins; a network of railroads.
Network
A system of computers linked together by communications channels allowing the exchange of data between the linked computers.
Network
A group of transmitting stations connected by communications channels that permit the same program to be broadcast simultaneously from multiple stations over a very wide area; as, the CBS television network;
Network
Any arrangement of electrical devices or elements connected together by conducting wires; as, a power transmission network.
Network
A group of buildings connected by means of transportation and communication between them, and controlled by a central organization for a common purpose; as, a book distribution network.
Network
To take steps to make and cultivate the acquaintance of people who can be helpful to oneself, especially in finding new employment, advancing to a higher position in one's occupation, or exchanging information.
Network
To connect together into a network; as, to network computers; to network the printer with computers.
Network
An interconnected system of things or people;
He owned a network of shops
Retirement meant dropping out of a whole network of people who had been part of my life
Tangled in a web of cloth
Network
(broadcasting) a communication system consisting of a group of broadcasting stations that all transmit the same programs;
The networks compete to broadcast important sports events
Network
An open fabric of string or rope or wire woven together at regular intervals
Network
A system of intersecting lines or channels;
A railroad network
A network of canals
Network
(electronics) a system of interconnected electronic components or circuits
Network
Communicate with and within a group;
You have to network if you want to get a good job
Network
A structured system of interconnected nodes.
Each node in the Network processes and transmits data.
Network
A group or system sharing common characteristics.
They created a Network of like-minded entrepreneurs.
Common Curiosities
Can a Network exist without the Internet?
Yes, a Network can be standalone, without Internet connectivity.
Are all online platforms part of the Internet?
Yes, online platforms operate over the Internet, utilizing the infrastructure of this global Network.
Is every computer on a Network also on the Internet?
No, a computer on a Network might not have Internet access if the network is isolated.
How vast is the Internet?
The Internet is a global system, encompassing countless individual networks.
How is data secured on a Network?
Network security measures, like firewalls and encryption, protect data. The Internet, however, is broader and requires additional security layers.
How did the Internet originate?
The Internet evolved from research networks, with ARPANET being a significant early Network.
How do devices on a Network communicate?
Devices on a Network use protocols and addresses to send and receive data. The Internet uses the TCP/IP protocol suite for this communication.
Can businesses have private Networks without Internet access?
Yes, businesses can have intranets or private Networks not connected to the Internet.
Who governs the Internet?
The Internet is decentralized, but several organizations help standardize protocols and ensure smooth operations.
Is a home Wi-Fi a Network or Internet?
Home Wi-Fi is a Network, but it typically provides access to the Internet.
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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.
