A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, enhances online security by creating a secure, encrypted tunnel for your internet traffic. It masks your IP address, making your online activities more private and secure from eavesdropping and data interception. VPNs enable users to connect to the internet as if they are located in a different geographical location, which can also help bypass regional restrictions. By protecting sensitive data and ensuring secure connections, VPNs are essential tools for maintaining privacy and security in digital communications.