Should My Network Be Public Or Private? (2024)

When Windows connects to a new network connection the meaning of the first question it asks is not very meaningful, so many people ignore it. Windows defaults all new connections to be a Public network, which makes sense from a security standpoint but can block connections. Setting a network as Public or Private changes firewall rules and affects services such as printing to a network printer.

Wi-Fi connections in particular should often be Public...which is why it's the default. If you're at a coffee shop you don't want to allow other patrons to connect to your laptop. On the other hand in the office or at home you typically trust other devices and want to share files or print. On a wired network, Windows will attempt to detect the network based on a few factors such as the router or company servers.

If it is a new or unrecognized network Windows prompts whether you want your PC to be "discoverable." Only allow that on a trusted network. This actually sets the network as Public or Private.

If a network is set as Public, Windows' built-in firewall as well as security software like ITS Antivirus will block more connections. For example since it's possible to set up a malicious print server that installs malware along with printer drivers, printing is often blocked on untrusted Public networks.

To change a network to Private or Public, right click the network or Wi-Fi icon in your system tray, and open Network & Internet Settings. Open the properties of your network connection and choose Public or Private.

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