What kind of network allows for encrypted communications between two computers?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is designed specifically to enable secure, encrypted communication between two or more computers over the internet or other unsecured networks. When data is transmitted through a VPN, it is encapsulated and encrypted, making it highly secure against potential eavesdropping or unauthorized access. This functionality is essential for maintaining privacy and confidentiality, particularly for sensitive data.

For instance, when a user connects to a VPN, their internet traffic is routed through a secure server, which ensures that their data is masked from potential intruders. VPNs are especially useful for remote access to corporate networks, providing employees with secure access to internal resources regardless of their physical location.

Other types of networks mentioned do not inherently offer the same level of encryption for communications. In a Local Area Network (LAN), devices can communicate directly with each other but do not automatically encrypt that communication. Similarly, a Wide Area Network (WAN) enables broader connectivity across larger geographical distances but doesn't guarantee encrypted communication either. In a Peer-to-Peer (P2P) network, while devices can share files directly, encryption depends on the applications being used, rather than the network itself. Thus, a VPN stands out as the primary choice for ensuring encrypted communications between computers.