Overview
In default, Zoho Connect networks have three user types, each with specific roles and permissions: Admins, Members, and External Users.
Who are Network Admins ?
Network admins monitor the entire network and have the most control.
They can:
Invite/remove users in the network
Manage apps, integrations, and features available to users
Set network policies and permissions
Create posts, events, town halls, network dashboard, etc.,
Customize the network in terms of looks and functionalities
For example, A manager acting as a network admin can set up tools for internal communication, approve new members, and ensure all content aligns with company policies.
Who are Members ?
Members are employees of your organization who share the same company domain (e.g., @zylker.com).
By default, they:
Have access to all apps within the network, like Groups, Forums, and Tasks.
Collaborate with teammates on projects and share updates.
For example, an HR at Zylker, can create Groups to collaborate with their team and use the Tasks to assign and track hiring process.
Who are External Users ?
External users are people outside your organization who don’t share your company domain. They can be clients, consultants, interns, contract employees, and other external stakeholders.

External users can access most network apps, except Channels.
For example, a freelance designer working with Zylker can join a group to collaborate on creative projects but won’t have access to other company channels.

Under external users, there is another role called restricted external users. They are nothing but external users, but the key difference is that restricted external users are only visible to network admins and the members of the specific group they belong to. In contrast, external users are visible to all network users in the People directory.
Apart from these default user types, a network admin can create custom roles with selected rules and permissions within a network. Those users will be known as custom roles.
Who are Custom Roles ?
Custom roles let admins define specific permissions for unique needs.
For example, a product manager role could be created, allowing specific employees or external users to manage tasks, update timelines, and oversee group activities without full admin access.
If you have doubts or queries related to user roles in Zoho Connect, feel free to reach out to us at support@zohoconnect.com. We're happy to help!