What is the purpose of the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol?

The purpose of the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol is to securely encrypt data transmitted over the internet. SSL is designed to create a secure channel between two endpoints, typically a web server and a web browser, allowing for the protective measures needed to ensure that sensitive data—such as personal information, credit card numbers, and login credentials—remains confidential and integral as it travels through potentially insecure networks.

SSL works by establishing an encrypted connection using a combination of public key and symmetric key encryption. This means that while data is being sent, it is encoded in such a way that only the intended recipient can decode and read it, thereby preventing eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks.

The other options do not accurately reflect the core functionality of SSL. While digital signature verification is an important security service, it is not the primary function of SSL. Similarly, managing network access pertains more to network security measures and protocols rather than encrypted communication. Lastly, while SSL can indirectly influence data transmission speed due to encryption overhead, its main focus is not on enhancing speed but rather on ensuring secure data transfer.