What does HTTPS stand for in the context of web communication?

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. This term describes a secure version of the standard HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) used for transmitting data over the internet. The addition of "Secure" indicates that the data sent between the user's browser and the website is encrypted, which helps protect against eavesdropping, tampering, and man-in-the-middle attacks. This is crucial for maintaining privacy and security, especially when handling sensitive information like passwords or credit card details.

The "S" in HTTPS indicates the use of Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols to add a layer of security, ensuring that communications remain confidential as they travel across the web. This encryption is vital for building trust with users, as it assures them that their data is safeguarded from potential threats during transmission.