A virtual private network (VPN) extends a private network across a public network, such as the Internet. It enables users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network. Applications running across the VPN may therefore benefit from the functionality, security, and management of the private network. VPNs may allow students to securely access a school's intranet while located off the campus.
A software program used to connect to a virtual private network (VPN).