What is one function of VPNs in networking?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is primarily designed to allow encrypted communications over the Internet. This is crucial for maintaining privacy and security, as it creates a secure tunnel through which data can be transmitted. This means that any data sent over the VPN is encrypted, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties to intercept or read the information.

The function of encrypting the communication helps safeguard sensitive data, particularly when users are accessing public Wi-Fi networks where the risk of eavesdropping is higher. When users connect to a VPN, their internet traffic is rerouted through a server that acts as an intermediary, adding an additional layer of security by masking the user's IP address and making their online activities more difficult to trace back to them.

In contrast to this function, options that refer to connecting multiple routers, enabling unencrypted communication, or increasing the speed of local networks do not accurately capture the primary purpose of a VPN. VPNs are focused on security rather than merely facilitating hardware connections or improving speed.