Which of the following best describes a VPN?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is best described as a secure connection over the internet. It creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and the VPN server, which protects data during transmission. This makes it difficult for unauthorized users to intercept or access the data being sent or received, enhancing privacy and security.

The fundamental purpose of a VPN is to secure online activities, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks, by masking the user's IP address and encrypting their internet connection. This ensures that sensitive information, such as passwords or personal data, remains confidential while traversing the often insecure internet.

Other options offer different functionalities but do not capture the essence of what a VPN provides. A temporary internet access point refers to a connection method without security features, while a wireless communication method does not specifically pertain to the security aspect of internet connections. An external data storage solution primarily focuses on data storage and accessibility rather than securing the transmission of information.