What best describes a VPN?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is best described as a software "tunnel" that creates a secure connection from a user's device to a network, often over the internet. This "tunnel" safeguards the data being transmitted by encrypting it, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure from unauthorized access and eavesdropping.

The primary function of a VPN is to provide privacy and security for users by encapsulating and encrypting their internet traffic, which is particularly vital for activities conducted on public networks or when accessing sensitive information remotely. By allowing users to appear as though they are connecting from a different location, VPNs can also help to bypass geographical restrictions on content and provide anonymity online.

In contrast, while data encryption is a critical feature of VPN technology, it is not solely a protocol itself; rather, it is one function of the VPN. A hardware device for secure connections is not an accurate depiction of a VPN, as VPNs are primarily software-based solutions. Finally, a type of firewall is distinct from a VPN, as firewalls are designed to block or allow traffic based on specific security rules, while VPNs focus on creating secure connections.