Which protocol helps to secure web transactions by adding a layer of encryption?

The Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTPS) is designed specifically to enhance the security of web transactions. It operates by adding a layer of encryption to the standard Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), which allows for secure communication between a user's browser and a web server. This encryption protects sensitive data, such as login credentials and payment information, from being intercepted by attackers during transmission over the internet.

By utilizing encryption protocols such as Transport Layer Security (TLS) or its predecessor, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), HTTPS ensures that the information exchanged is confidential and secure. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity and privacy of user data, especially on sites that require sensitive transactions.

In contrast, the other protocols listed do not provide the same level of security for web transactions. For instance, TCP is a transport layer protocol that focuses on reliable data transmission, while HTTP is not secure on its own without the added layer of HTTPS. File Transfer Protocol (FTP) is primarily used for transferring files and does not incorporate encryption, making it unsuitable for secure web transactions.