Network Layer Privacy

Definition ∞ Network layer privacy pertains to methods and protocols designed to conceal information at the network layer of the internet protocol suite. This includes obscuring IP addresses, routing paths, and traffic patterns to prevent surveillance and tracking. Technologies like VPNs and Tor are examples of tools that aim to provide network layer privacy. The objective is to protect user anonymity and communication confidentiality at a fundamental level.
Context ∞ In the digital asset space, network layer privacy is a significant concern, especially for users and projects prioritizing anonymity in their transactions and communications. News often covers advancements in privacy-enhancing technologies or regulatory debates surrounding their use. The ongoing tension exists between the desire for user privacy and the demands for transparency by financial regulators.