In computer and network security, the acronym 'SSL' is frequently encountered in the context of secure websites and encrypted connections. What does 'SSL' stand for?

Introduction / Context:
Web browsers and servers often rely on cryptographic protocols for secure communication. Historically, 'SSL' described the protocol layer used to secure HTTP (forming HTTPS). Knowing its expansion is a core digital literacy goal.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Term: SSL (commonly seen with HTTPS).
• Focus: Full form of the acronym.
• No need to deep-dive into modern TLS vs. SSL differences for this identification task.

Concept / Approach:
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It provides encryption, server authentication, and data integrity. While modern systems use TLS (Transport Layer Security), the historical term SSL remains widely recognized, and many tools still refer to 'SSL/TLS' interchangeably in user interfaces.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Security guides and certificate authorities consistently reference SSL as Secure Sockets Layer; TLS is its successor. This corroborates the correct expansion.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• System Socket Layer: Not a standard term in cryptographic protocols.
• Superuser System Login: Refers to privilege elevation, unrelated to web encryption.
• Secure System Login: Vague and not the accepted expansion of SSL.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming SSL and TLS are different expansions of the same acronym. They are different protocols historically; today, TLS is the current standard, but the expansion of SSL remains Secure Sockets Layer.

Final Answer:
Secure Socket Layer