Which of the following is an added benefit of using a VPN?

Using a VPN provides the significant benefit of encrypted data transmission, which enhances security and privacy while you're online. When a VPN is employed, it creates a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server. This tunnel encrypts all data traveling through it, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties, such as hackers or even internet service providers, to intercept or decipher your information. This is especially crucial when accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks, where the risks of data breaches and eavesdropping are significantly higher.

While the other options might seem appealing, they do not reflect the primary advantages of using a VPN. Increased internet speed may vary depending on numerous factors including server location and network congestion, but it is not a guaranteed outcome of using a VPN. Maintenance of network hardware and easy configuration of network settings are unrelated to the core function and benefits that VPNs provide, particularly in the realm of securing data transmission. The encryption feature stands out as the most defining and impactful benefit of VPN usage.