What type of network uses tunneling and security protocols for communication over the public Internet?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides a secure method of communication over the public Internet by using tunneling and security protocols. The primary purpose of a VPN is to create a protected network connection when using public networks. It accomplishes this by encrypting data and encapsulating it within a secure tunnel, which ensures that sensitive information remains confidential and is shielded from potential interception or eavesdropping.

Tunneling enables data packets to be transmitted securely from one point to another, while security protocols, such as IPsec or SSL/TLS, add layers of protection by encrypting the data being sent. This combination allows users to send private data across a potentially insecure medium, such as the Internet, as if they were on a private local network.

In the context of the other choices, a Local Area Network (LAN) typically covers a small geographic area, such as a home or office, and does not inherently require tunneling or security protocols when operating within that confined space. A Wide Area Network (WAN), on the other hand, connects multiple LANs over larger distances but may or may not employ tunneling and security protocols, depending on how it's configured. Lastly, a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) serves a city-sized area and is primarily