VPN

American  

Computers.

1. virtual private network: a system or technology that uses a public network, usually the internet, to transmit encrypted data between a private network and a remote authorized user.

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VPN British  

abbreviation

1. virtual private network: a network that uses the internet to transfer information using secure methods

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Etymology

Origin of VPN

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Still, it’s important to keep in mind that any VPN will inevitably slow your connection to some degree — there’s no way around that.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

It also includes its MediaStreamer feature for devices that don’t support VPN.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

If you want identity protection, you’re probably better off buying that service from a dedicated provider rather than bundling it up with a VPN subscription.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

Other options for devices without VPN support are connecting them to a VPN router or sharing your computer’s VPN connection with your console.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

This VPN allows us to share the feed from the microphone, images from the session, the real-time script, and all the animation designs amongst all the locations with a simple log-in.

From "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman