AES-NI stands for Advanced Encryption Standard New Instructions. It is a set of instructions that enhances the performance of AES encryption and decryption processes in computer systems. By utilizing these specialized instructions, processors can execute cryptographic operations more efficiently, leading to faster data protection. This technology is particularly beneficial for applications that require secure data transmission, such as VPNs and secure web browsing. With AES-NI, users experience improved security without sacrificing speed, making it a vital feature in modern processors from major manufacturers like Intel and AMD.