What is the difference between public and private content in ArcGIS Online?

Public content in ArcGIS Online is accessible by anyone with an internet connection, meaning that it can be discovered and viewed by people who do not have an ArcGIS Online account or are not logged in. This makes it ideal for sharing data or maps that are intended for a broad audience, such as educational materials, government public data, or community resources.

On the other hand, private content is designed specifically for restricted access. This type of content can only be viewed by users who have been granted specific permissions, such as members of a particular organization or individuals given access by the content owner. This privacy setting allows for secure sharing of sensitive or proprietary information, ensuring that only intended recipients can access the data.

The distinction between public and private content is crucial for managing data visibility and adhering to best practices regarding data security and sharing within ArcGIS Online. Thus, understanding this difference helps organizations navigate their data management strategies effectively, ensuring the right balance between public engagement and data confidentiality.