**What is the main purpose of the Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTPS)?**
The main purpose of the Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTPS) is to provide a secure communication channel over the internet. It accomplishes this by encrypting the data exchanged between a user's browser and a web server, protecting against eavesdropping, tampering, and man-in-the-middle attacks. HTTPS employs Transport Layer Security (TLS) to establish an encrypted link, ensuring that sensitive information, such as passwords and payment details, remains confidential. It is essential for enhancing trust and security on websites, particularly those handling personal or financial transactions.