What does the acronym VPN stand for?

The acronym VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. This technology creates a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the Internet. By establishing a VPN, users can send and receive data as if their devices are directly connected to a private network. This setup enhances privacy and anonymity by masking the user’s IP address and encrypting their online activities.

When using a VPN, all data transmitted between the user’s device and the VPN server is encrypted, making it difficult for third parties, such as hackers or unauthorized entities, to intercept the communication. This is particularly important for individuals accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks or for organizations wishing to protect their data while remote workers connect to the corporate network.

The other options do not accurately reflect the functionality or purpose of a VPN. While variations of the terms exist, none convey the essential idea of creating a secure and private pathway over a public network, which is fundamental to what a VPN provides.