Which statement describes a virtual private cloud (VPC)?

A virtual private cloud (VPC) is fundamentally a logically isolated section of the AWS Cloud where users can define and control their own virtual networking environment. This includes aspects such as the choice of IP address range, creation of subnets, and configuration of route tables and network gateways, allowing users to operate in a secure manner as if they were running in their own data center.

This isolation is key to providing a higher level of security and control over your resources when leveraging cloud computing, making it possible to run applications and services without interference from other users of the AWS infrastructure. The ability to customize and manage the networking environment enhances security practices by supporting the implementation of firewalls and security groups tailored to specific needs, strictly controlling inbound and outbound traffic.

The other options do not accurately describe the function and purpose of a VPC. A shared section of the AWS Cloud, for example, does not convey the idea of isolation and control that a VPC provides. Similarly, a service for managing databases or a platform specifically for storing backups do not relate to the networking and resource isolation aspects that define a VPC.