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
James VeriniTony, 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
Joe Lightcalled also VPN
Examples of virtual private network in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Topline Despite widespread speculation that virtual private networks, or VPNs, could be used to circumvent a nationwide ban on TikTok, few users are reporting having much success with technological loopholes.
—Sara Dorn, Forbes, 19 Jan. 2025
Additionally, there are potential work-arounds for the U.S. ban—namely, virtual private networks, or VPNs.
—Ben Guarino, Scientific American, 17 Jan. 2025
The most common workaround that’s brought up is a VPN, or virtual private network, that allows users to mask their location.
—Haleluya Hadero, Twin Cities, 17 Jan. 2025
How exactly the ban would be implemented is uncertain, but content creators are using the time ahead of Jan. 19 to educate other users about virtual private networks (VPN), which allow online users to mask their locations.
—Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 13 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for virtual private network 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Sara Dorn, Forbes, 19 Jan. 2025
Additionally, there are potential work-arounds for the U.S. ban—namely, virtual private networks, or VPNs.
—Ben Guarino, Scientific American, 17 Jan. 2025
The most common workaround that’s brought up is a VPN, or virtual private network, that allows users to mask their location.
—Haleluya Hadero, Twin Cities, 17 Jan. 2025
How exactly the ban would be implemented is uncertain, but content creators are using the time ahead of Jan. 19 to educate other users about virtual private networks (VPN), which allow online users to mask their locations.
—Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 13 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for virtual private network
Dictionary Entries Near virtual private network
Cite this Entry
“Virtual private network.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/virtual%20private%20network. Accessed 23 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share