Virtual private networks

Definition

A virtual private network is a technology that creates a safe and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet. It allows users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to a private network.

Related terms

Encryption:

The process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access.

Firewall:

A network security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

IP Address:

A unique string of numbers separated by periods that identifies each computer using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network