What is the primary difference between public and private networks?

The primary difference between public and private networks lies in ownership and maintenance. A public network, such as the internet, is owned and maintained by various organizations or service providers and is accessible to anyone who wishes to connect to it. This means that the infrastructure, as well as the resources available, are shared among multiple users, resulting in a collaborative environment where information and services can be accessed globally.

On the other hand, a private network is typically owned by an individual or an organization and is designed for a specific group of users, such as employees within a company. The ownership allows for greater control over the network's security, data privacy, and performance. Private networks often employ specific configurations, security protocols, and policies that dictate how data can be accessed and managed. This dedicated infrastructure helps protect sensitive information and provides better service quality for its users.

The other options relate to network characteristics but do not define the ownership aspect, which is crucial in distinguishing between public and private networks. Thus, understanding ownership and maintenance clarifies the fundamental operational differences between these two types of networks.