A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, enhances online security and privacy by encrypting internet traffic and masking the user's IP address. This prevents unauthorized access and protects sensitive information from eavesdroppers while browsing or transmitting data. VPNs create a secure tunnel between the user’s device and the web, ensuring that data remains confidential even when using public Wi-Fi networks. They can also help users bypass regional restrictions and maintain anonymity online, providing a safer internet experience in an era of increasing cyber threats.