What does the acronym "SSL" stand for, and what is its purpose?

The acronym "SSL" stands for Secure Sockets Layer. Its primary purpose is to establish an encrypted link between a web server and a browser, ensuring that any data transmitted remains private and secure from interception. This encryption helps protect sensitive information, such as login credentials and payment details, as it traverses the internet. By creating this secure connection, SSL enhances the security of online communications, making it a fundamental protocol for secure web browsing. This technology is particularly critical for maintaining user trust and enabling safe e-commerce and data exchanges across the internet.