What does SSL/TLS primarily provide?

SSL/TLS primarily provides secure communication over a computer network. These protocols are designed to establish a secure session between a client and a server, ensuring that the data exchanged between them is encrypted and cannot be easily intercepted or altered by unauthorized parties.

When SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security) are implemented, they create a secure tunnel for data transmission, which includes mechanisms for authentication, encryption, and integrity checks. This means that when data is sent over a network, SSL/TLS helps protect it from eavesdropping, tampering, and forgery, facilitating the safe transfer of sensitive information such as personal details or payment information during online transactions.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary function of SSL/TLS. While they may touch on aspects that could relate to broader security practices or system performance, they do not focus on the essential role of SSL/TLS in securing communication across networks.