A virtual private network (VPN) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, like internet and enables users to send and receive data over shared or public networks. It creates a secure tunnel between client and host machine and encrypt the data which is getting transferred and also protect the connection from packet sniffing.
VPN technology was developed to make remote users and branch offices to securely access corporate applications and other resources. VPN is created by establishing a non physical or virtual point-to-point connection between source and destination. To ensure safety and security, data travels through secure tunnels, and VPN users must use authentication methods -- including passwords, tokens or other unique identification procedures -- to gain access to the VPN server.
VPNs are mostly used by the remote users who want access to corporate resources and applications like downloading some files or getting log on to those website which may be geographically restricted.
