What is a common use for a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

A common use for a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is to provide an encrypted connection to a private network. This functionality is crucial for enhancing security and privacy when transmitting data over the internet. By establishing a VPN, users can create a secure tunnel around their internet traffic, ensuring that sensitive information such as passwords, financial data, and personal communications are protected from eavesdroppers. This is especially beneficial when using public Wi-Fi networks, where data interception is a significant risk.

While other options might sound plausible in their contexts, they do not accurately represent the primary purpose of a VPN. For instance, improving internet speed is not a guaranteed feature of VPNs; in fact, they can sometimes slow down connection speeds due to encryption and routing processes. Synchronizing files across devices typically relies on cloud storage services rather than a VPN. Lastly, preventing software updates is contrary to the general goals of network management and security, which often encourage timely updates to ensure devices are secure and functional.