What does VPN stand for and what is its primary purpose?

The term stands for Virtual Private Network, and its primary purpose is to create a secure connection over the internet. This technology allows users to access the internet through a secure tunnel, which encrypts data and masks the user's IP address, thereby providing privacy and security for online activities. By using a VPN, sensitive information can be transmitted without the risk of interception, making it particularly useful for individuals accessing public Wi-Fi networks or for organizations needing to connect remote employees securely to their internal networks.

The other options do not accurately represent the definition or primary function of a VPN. For instance, while the idea of enhancing security is present in the second choice, the term "Variable Public Network" does not define the technology correctly. Similarly, the third option related to improving data transfer rates is misleading as VPNs primarily focus on security and private connections rather than enhancing speed. Lastly, the fourth alternative incorrectly associates VPN with voice communication, which is not its central feature, as VPNs are designed for securing data traffic rather than specifically catering to voice transport.