Both internet and intranet are the tech terms that are used extensively in the networking world today. Although both the terms seem similar they both have different definitions and uses. There is a remarkable difference between internet and intranet. The internet is a broader term and intranet is only part of the internet.
What is Internet
The Internet is an interconnection of various networks that can be public, private or at the organizational level. The global devices are linked together using Internet protocol and transmission control protocol (TCP/IP). Various technologies are used to create an internet network. These technologies include optical fiber, wired, wireless or electronics circuitry. The internet carries huge repository of informational hypertext documents available on World Wide Web. The internet also provides services like emailing, data sharing, telephony, e-shopping, etc.
What is Intranet
It is a network of devices which is private and not available to the public like the internet. In an intranet, the networked computers or devices are available only to a group of authorized users. You can deploy security policies specific to the user, group or device. The technologies used to create the intranet are the same as for required for establishing LAN or WAN. The users within intranet can connect to the internet, a public network through firewalls. The major uses of intranet include faster travel of information within an organization, time management, cost effective, enhance collaboration and promote corporate culture.
Difference between Internet and Intranet
| INTERNET | INTRANET |
|---|---|
| Available to all across the globe | Only the employees of organization can access it |
| Data traveling across the internet or the web is Less Secure | Intranet is more secure due to presence of robust security systems |
| No login credentials are required to access the information from internet | A user account is must to access the devices of intranet |
| Any number of users can access the internet services and documents. | There is a limit to the number of users that can access internet resources |
| No rules or policies are defined to access internet resources | There are certain policies and regulations which you have to comply within the intranet. |
Apart from many differences, both internet and intranet have many technical similarities between them Some of the similar features include.
- The devices connected to network in both internet and intranet use same networking protocols TCP/IP.
- Like websites which are accessible on internet, intranet hosted websites are too accessible through web browsers but with limited access.
- Intranet users can too chat on their customized messenger apps similar to G talk or yahoo messengers available on internet.
Defining Intranet is really simple in which network exists in some company, school, and Government offices premises and have list of authorized users who can access particular information in the form or files, folders. Everyone cannot use Intranet and it have very limited connectivity.