Which of the following is NOT a type of Layer 2 network?

In the context of networking, Layer 2 refers to the data link layer of the OSI model, which is responsible for node-to-node data transfer and error correction from the physical layer. The types of Layer 2 networks typically include point-to-point networks, where a direct link exists between two nodes; circuit-based networks that establish a dedicated circuit for communication; and shared networks, where multiple devices share the same communication medium.

A virtual private routed network, on the other hand, primarily operates at Layer 3 (the network layer), which deals with packet forwarding including routing through different networks. This network type establishes a virtual private network (VPN) primarily for the purpose of routing, not direct data link layer functions. Therefore, it does not fall under the classification of Layer 2 networks.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the architecture of networking protocols and the roles played by different layers in the OSI model.