TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

Which TCP/IP protocol is a secure form of HTTP that uses SSL as a sublayer for security?

1. FTP

2. HTTP

3. HTTPS

4. SFTP

The correct answer is: HTTPS

The answer is HTTPS because it is specifically designed to provide a secure version of HTTP by utilizing SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or its successor, TLS (Transport Layer Security), as a sublayer to encrypt the data transmitted between a web browser and a web server. This encryption helps protect the integrity and confidentiality of data, preventing interception and tampering by unauthorized parties. When users navigate to a website that employs HTTPS, they can verify that the connection is secure through visual indicators such as a padlock icon in the browser's address bar. This is critical for online transactions, such as entering sensitive information like credit card details or personal data, as it helps ensure that this information is safe from potential threats. In contrast, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used for transferring files over a network and doesn't include encryption by default, making it less secure for sensitive data. HTTP, while it allows web communication, also lacks built-in security features, making it vulnerable to attacks. SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) is another secure transfer protocol, but it is specifically designed for secure file transfers and is distinct from the web communication context addressed by HTTPS.