"SSL" stands for Secure Sockets Layer, a protocol essential for encrypting data transmitted over networks, particularly the internet. It establishes a secure connection between a web server and a browser, ensuring that sensitive information, such as login credentials and credit card details, remains confidential during transit. SSL is important for protecting data integrity, privacy, and user trust in online transactions. The technology has evolved into TLS (Transport Layer Security), but the original term "SSL" is still commonly used to refer to secure communications.