# VPN tunnel

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vpn-tunnel
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a secure and private connection between your device and another network over the internet. It acts like a protected pipe that keeps your data safe from people trying to see what you are doing online.

For teachers: an encrypted link between a local device and a remote server that encapsulates data packets to ensure privacy and security over public networks. It functions by wrapping data in an additional layer of encryption, making the traffic invisible to external observers.

## Examples

- I use a VPN tunnel to access my office files from home.
- To protect his sensitive banking information while using public Wi-Fi, he established a VPN tunnel to his provider's server.
- The network administrator configured a site-to-site VPN tunnel to allow the branch offices to communicate securely without exposing internal traffic to the open internet.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verbs 'establish', 'create', or 'set up'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.