virtual private network

noun

plural virtual private networks

: a private computer network that functions over a public network (such as the Internet) and usually utilizes data encryption to provide secure access to something (such as an internal business server or private network)

He persuaded its users to communicate through a virtual private network, or VPN, a secure channel that sends encrypted messages between computers …

—James Verini

Tony, like all savvy Internet thieves, uses a virtual private network that masks his computer's true Internet Protocol address every time he logs on.

—Joe Light

called also VPN

Examples of virtual private network in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Zair-Bek, who is currently based outside Russia, expects many inside the country will continue using Telegram, however, by installing a virtual private network (VPN) — technology that has allowed Russians to bypass online restrictions. —Yuliya Talmazan, NBC news, 22 Mar. 2026

Thousands of websites and platforms are blocked, as are multiple virtual private networks that allow users to circumvent censorship. —ABC News, 21 Mar. 2026

At least 14 were accused of possessing Starlink internet dishes or planning to sell them or virtual private network cards. —Sarah El Deeb, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026

Users often hide their identity and location with virtual private networks (VPNs) in order to access the exchange. —Luke Garrett, NPR, 14 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1983, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for virtual private network

• artwork
• beadwork
• berserk
• breastwork
• brickwork
• brushwork
• casework
• classwork
• clockwork
• coursework
• ductwork
• earthwork

Kids Definition

virtual private network

noun

: a private computer network that functions over a public network (as the Internet) and usually uses data encryption to provide secure access to something (as an internal business server)