What does a Virtual Private Network (VPN) primarily do?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) primarily secures private communications over public networks. This is achieved by creating an encrypted tunnel between a user's device and the VPN server. Through this tunnel, data transmitted over the internet is protected from eavesdropping, making it difficult for hackers, ISPs, or any unauthorized users to intercept or read the information being communicated.

This encryption also helps in maintaining privacy by masking the user's IP address, allowing them to browse the internet without revealing their actual location. VPNs are widely used for secure connections to corporate networks, especially when accessing sensitive information from remote locations.

In contrast, enhancing internet speed is not a primary function of VPNs; in some cases, they may even lead to a slower connection due to the encryption process. Converting local area networks into wireless networks pertains to networking hardware rather than VPN technology. Lastly, while a VPN may provide access to geographically restricted content, it does not inherently allow unrestricted access to public websites; it is primarily focused on securing the data transferred over the internet rather than modifying access to websites.