What best describes an Open Wi-Fi network?

An Open Wi-Fi network is best described as a non-password protected router, which allows users to connect without needing to enter a password. This means that anyone within range of the signal can access the network freely, making it easily accessible but also potentially less secure.

In contrast, a network requiring multiple passwords for access would not be considered open, as it restricts access to authorized users only. A virtual private network (VPN) refers to a secure connection that often uses encryption to protect data over the internet; it does not equate to an open Wi-Fi network. Similarly, a network that is always encrypted suggests a level of security that is not present in an open Wi-Fi setup, where data transmitted can be intercepted without security measures in place. Therefore, the defining feature of an Open Wi-Fi network is its lack of password protection, which directly leads to unrestricted access for users.