Word
VPN
Phoneticsvpn
Countable noun
Definition
n. Stands for Virtual Private Network. A tool that creates a private, secure connection for your computer or phone when you use the internet. You use it to hide your location or keep your data safe from hackers.
n. Abbreviation for Virtual Private Network. A technology that establishes a secure, encrypted tunnel over a public network, effectively extending a private network across the internet. It masks the user's IP address and protects data from interception.
Examples
“I use a VPN to work securely from the coffee shop.”
“Many employees must connect to the company VPN before they can access internal files from their home computers.”
“By routing traffic through an encrypted server in a different jurisdiction, a VPN allows users to bypass regional content restrictions while maintaining a higher degree of anonymity from local service providers.”
Examples
simple
“I use a VPN to work securely from the coffee shop.”
contextual
“Many employees must connect to the company VPN before they can access internal files from their home computers.”
complex
“By routing traffic through an encrypted server in a different jurisdiction, a VPN allows users to bypass regional content restrictions while maintaining a higher degree of anonymity from local service providers.”
Usage
Usually used with the definite article ('the VPN') or as an attributive noun in phrases like 'VPN provider' or 'VPN connection'.
Real-World Examples
“Access to the opposition’s results website has been blocked inside Venezuela, where it can only be accessed via VPN.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/vpn