The document discusses virtual private networks (VPNs) and their key features. It explains that a VPN uses a public network like the internet to connect private network sites securely. VPNs offer advantages over traditional private networks like lower cost and easier scalability. The document outlines VPN tunneling, encryption, authentication methods like IPSec and SSL, and how VPNs standardize security across connected networks. It provides an example of a current European VPN project.