internet vs. intranet

internet vs. intranet: What's the difference?

Both internet and intranet refer to computer networks. The internet links smaller computer networks to a vast public web of worldwide networks. An intranet is usually a local network, often within a single company, that uses the protocols and systems developed for the internet but with access restricted to the computers in that network. To help distinguish them, remember inter- means “between” or “among” and intra- means “within.”

internet

[in-ter-net] / ˈɪn tərˌnɛt /

Or Internet

noun

Usually the internet (except when used before a noun) a vast computer network linking smaller computer networks worldwide: includes commercial, educational, governmental, and other networks, all of which use the same set of communications protocols.

They advertised the sale in the local paper and on the internet.
My insurance company offers incentives to refill prescriptions over the internet.
Parents are advised to monitor their kids’ internet access and block websites with adult content.

idioms

win the internet, to be or post an article, comment, etc., on the internet that is particularly good or that earns the approval of others (often used sarcastically).

That perceptive tweet of his won the internet last night.
Very funny, intelligent tirade—you win the internet!
break the internet,
1. Slang. (of a story, image, etc.) to go viral online and suddenly dominate public interest and discourse.
  
  Creative marketing for her new album broke the internet.
2. to cause internet technology or culture to change for the worse or cease to function.
  
  Could government surveillance and censorship break the internet forever?

intranet

[in-truh-net] / ˈɪn trəˌnɛt /

noun

Digital Technology.

a computer network with restricted access, as within a company, that uses software and protocols developed for the internet.