BCA / B.Tech 10 min read

Public & Private Networks

Public and Private Networks in Computer Networks:


Computer networks are of two main types: public networks and private networks. These two types of networks differ based on their use, structure, and security. While public networks are available to everyone, private networks can only be accessed by a limited group of users. It is essential to understand the differences, benefits, and challenges of both these networks.

Public Network:
A public network is a network that is open and available to the general public. Anyone can easily connect to this network using internet facilities. The internet is the largest and most famous example of a public network. Additionally, free Wi-Fi facilities available at places like railway stations, airports, and cafes also fall under public networks.

Features of a Public Network:
  • Public Access: Open to everyone without special permission.
  • Unrestricted Usage: Can be used for any activity like browsing, social media, etc.
  • Low Security: Security challenges exist as many people can connect simultaneously.
  • Easy Availability: Generally available in public places.
Advantages: Availability for everyone, often free, and wide connectivity.
Challenges: Low security, lack of privacy, and potentially slow speeds due to high user traffic.

Private Network:
A private network is a secure and limited network that only authorized users can access. It is designed for the internal use of a company, institution, or organization. The number of connected devices and users is limited, which increases network security and stability.

Features of a Private Network:
  • Restricted Access: Only for authorized users.
  • High Security: Prioritizes security with measures like firewalls, encryption, and passwords.
  • Private and Confidential: Designed for institutions to keep their sensitive information secure.
  • Controlled Usage: Only permitted individuals can use the network.
Advantages: Better security, privacy protection, and better performance due to fewer users.
Challenges: High cost for setup and maintenance, limited access, and requires dedicated management.

In this Chapter

Public & Private Networks
Auto-Configuration and Anycast
Modified EUI-64 | What is Modified EUI-64?
Architecture of Mobile Computing
Wireless LAN in Hindi | What is Wireless LAN?
Wireless User Devices
MAC Protocol | What is MAC Protocol?
IEEE 802.11 | What is IEEE 802.11
Mobile IP | What is Mobile IP
Wireless TCP/IP
Unicast & Multicast Communication
Bluetooth | What is Bluetooth?
NS2 & NAM | What are NS2 and NAM?
Purpose & installation of NS2 & NAM
Background of NS2 & NAM
Architecture of NS2 & NAM
Interface of OTcl & C++
Trace Files & Formats
Protocol Support of NS2
Simulation Object of NS2 & NAM
Basic Syntax of NS2 & NAM
Node Creation of NS2 & NAM
Running NS2 & NAM
Finish Procedure NS2 & NAM
Invoking external commands within NS2
Nodes & Agents of NS2 & NAM
NS2 Commands
Creating Links in Wired Network
Setting Link Parameters
Sending Traffics Through NS2 Links
Routing Protocol Support of NS2
Scenarios in Wired Networks
Additional Parameters
Setting node positions
God object & topography
Protocol Support
Scenarios in Wireless Networks
What is the Internet? Difference Between Intranet and Extranet
Types of Internet
OSI Model and its Layers
Computer Network (CN) All Important Questions and Answers in English (MDSU)
BCA | Computer Network | 2025 Paper | MDSU Exam Paper
Importance of the Layer Model in Computer Networks
Network Classification
Network Topology
Network Switching & Components
Ethernet
Token Ring
Basic Networking Concepts & Cabling
What is a Computer in English?
Bridges in Computer Networks
Routers in Computer Networks
Gateways in Computer Networks
FDMA (Frequency Division Multiple Access)
BCA | CN(Computer Network) Paper | 2023 MDSU Exam Paper
What is World Wide Web (WWW)
TDMA, SDMA, CDMA
Personal Communication System | What is PCS
IPv4 | What is IPv4?
Subnetting IPv4 Address
Casting in IPv4
Private IPv4 Addressing
IPv4 Address Scheme
IPv6 Addressing Scheme
Types of IPv6 Addressing