Which protocol is used for secure web browsing?

The protocol used for secure web browsing is HTTPS, which stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure. It is an extension of HTTP and incorporates a layer of security by using encryption protocols such as SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security). This ensures that data transmitted between a user's web browser and the web server is encrypted, making it more difficult for attackers to intercept or tamper with the information exchanged.

Using HTTPS is particularly important when sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card numbers, or personal information, is transmitted over the internet. Websites that use HTTPS display a padlock icon in the browser's address bar, indicating that the connection is secure and that data is protected from eavesdroppers and malicious actors. This is essential in establishing trust between users and the websites they interact with, promoting a safer web browsing experience.

In contrast, HTTP does not provide this same level of security, and protocols like FTP (File Transfer Protocol) and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) serve different purposes, focusing on file transfers and email retrieval, respectively, without the emphasis on secure web browsing.