Which technology is used to create secure communications over the internet?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is specifically designed to create secure communications over the internet by establishing an encrypted connection between the user's device and the VPN server. This encryption protects data from eavesdropping and ensures privacy as it travels across public networks. It essentially creates a private tunnel through which the data can safely pass, making it increasingly difficult for unauthorized parties to intercept or view the information.

In contrast, a firewall primarily serves as a barrier that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. While firewalls are crucial for network security, they do not inherently provide the encrypted communication that a VPN offers.

Similarly, a network switch facilitates the connection between devices on a local area network (LAN) by forwarding data based on MAC addresses, but it does not provide secure communication over the internet.

A router, while essential for directing data packets between networks and devices, also lacks the necessary encryption features that define a VPN. While routers can include security measures, their primary role is not focused on ensuring secure, private communications like a VPN does. Thus, a Virtual Private Network stands out as the technology dedicated to ensuring secure communication over the internet.