What is a VPN primarily used for?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is primarily used to create a secure connection to another network over the Internet. This secure connection allows users to send and receive data as if their devices were directly connected to a private network, even when they are accessing it through a public network. The VPN achieves this by encapsulating and encrypting data, providing privacy and anonymity for users.

The primary function of a VPN is to enable secure remote access to network resources, ensuring that data transferred between the user and the VPN server is protected from eavesdropping and interception. Therefore, its role in creating a private network within a public framework is a foundational characteristic of how VPNs operate.

The other options address important aspects of cybersecurity but do not capture the primary purpose of a VPN. While enhancing email security is crucial, it typically involves different protocols and encryption methods tailored specifically for email traffic. Encrypting data during file transfers is also important but more indicative of specific file transfer protocols or services. Monitoring user activity online, while a feature of some security systems, does not align with the primary focus of a VPN, which is to ensure secure and private networking rather than tracking user behavior.