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VPN (Virtual Private Network)

CybersecurityBeginnerVersion 1

Simple Explanation

A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and a VPN server. It can help protect traffic on untrusted networks.

Technical Explanation

A virtual private network tunnels traffic to a VPN endpoint using an encrypted protocol. Websites commonly see the VPN server’s public IP address, but a VPN does not provide complete anonymity or prevent every online threat.

Business Use Case

An employer uses a VPN to give remote staff protected access to internal systems.

Real-Life Example

At a café, you connect to your company VPN before accessing a private work application.

A VPN routes traffic through an encrypted connection to a VPN server.

Diagram showing a device, an encrypted tunnel, a VPN server, and the internet.