What type of connection does an SSL certificate provide?

An SSL certificate provides an encrypted connection. This encryption is a fundamental aspect of SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor, TLS (Transport Layer Security), which are protocols that secure data transmitted over the internet. When a website has an SSL certificate, it means that any data exchanged between the user's browser and the server is encrypted, ensuring that sensitive information such as login credentials and payment details is protected from eavesdropping or tampering by malicious actors.

The underlying technology works by establishing a secure session through a process called the SSL handshake, which verifies the identity of the server and establishes an encrypted connection. This level of security is vital for maintaining user privacy and trust while using online services and applications. As a result, SSL certificates are especially crucial for websites that handle personal or financial information.

Options that suggest an unsecured connection, an open connection, or a public access connection do not accurately represent the secure and encrypted nature of the connection provided by SSL certificates.