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What Is a Public Network?
A public network is defined as a type of telecommunication network that is open and provides access to anyone, namely the general public, to connect to other networks or the Internet. Public networks allow users to connect their devices without entering a password or other authorization, or by using a shared password.
Examples of public networks include 4G and 5G mobile networks and free Wi-Fi networks in cafes, hotels, airports, libraries, and other locations. They are typically provided to the venue by Internet service providers (ISPs).
They are easy to access, but since they are unsecured and have few or no restrictions, users need to be wary of possible security risks when accessing them. It is good practice to use encryption and avoid accessing sensitive information from a device using a public network to prevent malicious actors from stealing data.
Key Takeaways
- Public networks are open Internet connections accessible to anyone within range; they are typically found in shared spaces.
- Public networks are accessible to anyone, while private networks restrict access to specific users and have controlled settings.
- Public networks tend to be less secure than private networks, making users vulnerable to cyber threats like hacking, data theft, and malware attacks.
- Personal Wi-Fi should be set to “private network” mode for security, to protect devices from unauthorized access and file sharing.
- When connected to public networks, users should avoid activities that require them to transmit sensitive information, such as online banking, using a VPN, and ensure websites have secure use HTTPS connections.
How a Public Network Works
A public network is a usage designation rather than a topology or other technically related principle. In terms of hardware and infrastructure, there is no technical difference between a private and public network, except for the security, addressing, and authentication systems in place.
They use unique IP addresses that are routable on the Internet. Each device that is connected directly to the Internet through the public network is assigned a distinct public IP address.
Public networks enable network discovery, making it easy for users to locate and connect. Some device operating systems (OSs) have settings that alert users when they are about to connect to a public network to ensure they are aware that their connection is unsecured.
Public Network vs. Private Network
| Aspect | Public Network | Private Network |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Open access to any member of the public. | Restricted access to authorized users only. |
| Operation | Operated by service providers, public organizations, or government agencies to provide convenient access to the Internet in public areas. | Used in homes, businesses, and other locations to limit connectivity to permissioned users, who need login credentials to gain access. |
| Security | More vulnerable to cyberattacks because they are open to anyone. | Create secure connections for enterprise networks and prevent unauthorized parties from accessing sensitive internal data or assets. |
| Data traffic | Can become congested with high numbers of users. | Typically faster and less congested as the number of connections is limited. |
Public Network Safety
Open public networks are convenient for accessing the Internet when in public locations. However, because they are open, connecting to public networks can put your data security at risk.
Public networks are often referred to as unsecured, as not only do they not require login credentials but they typically do not have security features such as firewalls. This means data transmitted over the networks can be viewed or intercepted by hackers trying to infiltrate the systems of unsuspecting users.
Hackers can position themselves between a user’s device and the unsecured network connection so that they can intercept all data before relaying it. This allows them to steal important information, such as passwords, and to spread viruses or malware.
Many company secrets have been stolen from executives using their laptops in coffee shops with public Wi-Fi routers.
It is important for users to take precautions when using public Wi-Fi, especially when they access sensitive information like online banking.
These can include:
- Using a virtual private network (VPN) so that all data transmitted between the device and the public connection is strongly encrypted.
- Using SSL connections on websites that require you to enter credentials, personal information, or payment details.
- Turning off sharing from the device system settings.
- Turning off Wi-Fi connectivity when not in use to prevent it from transmitting data to or from public networks within range.
- Running antivirus software to keep the device protected and catch malware.
Public Network Pros & Cons
There are advantages and disadvantages to using public networks to access the Internet:
Pros
- Convenient for people who need to access the Internet in public places
- Allows businesses to offer Wi-Fi to customers for free or at a low cost
- Supports community access to information or communication
- Provides Internet access to customers or visitors outside a company’s internal private network
- Facilitates easy temporary Internet access for attendees at conferences and other events
- Widely available in many public places
Cons
- Cybersecurity risks as hackers can intercept sensitive data
- Slow connection speeds as many users can connect simultaneously
- Lack of control over network settings
The Bottom Line
Public networks provide open, convenient access to the Internet from public locations. There is no technical difference between a public and private networks; private networks simply limit and secure access using login credentials or other permissions.
Users should exercise caution when connecting to public networks and follow best practices to ensure their data is protected from unauthorized access.
