What does the acronym "VPN" stand for?

The correct response refers to "VPN" as standing for "Virtual Private Network." This terminology encompasses a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the Internet. The purpose of a VPN is to protect your online activity from snooping, interference, and censorship, thereby establishing a private communication pathway even when using public networks.

The term "private" is crucial because it emphasizes the security aspect of this networking technology, enabling users to safely transmit data without exposure to potential threats in public or shared networks. VPNs are widely used for various applications, including enhancing privacy and security while browsing, remotely accessing corporate networks, or bypassing geo-restrictions on content access. The encryption provided by a VPN ensures that even if data is intercepted, it cannot be easily read or exploited by malicious actors.