Doesn't a VPN work over the internet (in order to access a local network). So I wouldn't say it provides internet connectivity (as you already need to be connected to the internet to connect to a VPN).

A VPN simply gives you access to a local network. A specific use of a VPN is masking your internet traffic as if it came from that local network, but there are many uses besides it.

This is the best description of a "programmer solution" ever.