What does a URL that begins with "https://" signify?

A URL that begins with "https://" signifies that it is an SSL-enabled web address. The "https" stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. This means that any data transmitted between the user's browser and the website is encrypted for security.

Using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or its successor, TLS (Transport Layer Security), ensures that personal information, such as credit card numbers and login credentials, is protected against eavesdropping and tampering. This is particularly important for sites that handle sensitive information, as it establishes a secure connection that users can trust.

While the other options mention aspects that are related to web addresses, they do not capture the specific significance of the "https://" prefix. A standard web address does not guarantee security, and while a secure server is indeed indicated by the use of "https," the correct focus is on the SSL encryption itself. The mention of a deprecated web address format is not accurate in this context, as "https://" is the preferred and secure method for web address notation today.