MICROSOFT v NORTON NETWORK SETTING VOCABULARY

Microsoft defaults to what it calls a PUBLIC network setting and recommends that for home networks, it seems.

Apparently, Microsoft - not Norton - says it will independently restrict access to my home network for me if I set it to PUBLIC.

Naturally I set up my laptop to use it on their recommendation - only to discover that Norton restricts incoming traffic if the setting is set to PUBLIC and recommends it should be set to PRIVATE.

These two products are using the terms with opposite - in fact, diametrically opposed - meanings. Any help with this is appreciated.

Hello @Maudie
on my machine
Windows Public/Private network description = Norton Public/Private network description

as to what’s recommened…Windows vs Norton…my network…I do not need other machines discoverable nor connect to other machines/devices. I opt Public. Just me

as to what’s recommended…Windows vs Norton…your network…

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  • on my machine Windows = Public network (Recommened)
  • on my machine I run Norton = Public network (cafe icon/white)

Caveat:
I do not need other machines discoverable
I do not connect to other machines/devices

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O Public network (Recommended)
Your device is not discoverable on the network. Use this in most cases—when connected to a network at
home, work, or in a public place.
O Private network
Your device is discoverable on the network. Select this if you need file sharing or use apps that communicate
over this network. You should know and trust the people and devices on the network.

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Public (cafe icon/white)

Public network - Recommended for public networks, like in a cafe or airport, where you need a higher level of security. Printers and other PCs on this network won’t be able to find and connect to your PC.


Private (home icon/white)

Private network - Recommended for home or work networks where you need a lower level of security. Printers and other PCs on this network will be able to find and connect to your PC.

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as to what’s recommened…Windows vs Norton…my network…I do not need other machines discoverable nor connect to other machines/devices. I opt Public. Just me

We’re restricting incoming traffic on this network
You appear to be on a Public network, so we increased your security.

Hello @Maudie