What is the benefit of using HTTPS for downloading files?

Using HTTPS for downloading files provides the benefit of secure encryption of data. HTTPS, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, adds a layer of security on top of the standard HTTP protocol. When files are downloaded over HTTPS, the data transmitted between the user's device and the server is encrypted using protocols like TLS (Transport Layer Security). This encryption helps to protect sensitive information from being intercepted by malicious actors during transmission.

Additionally, the use of HTTPS ensures data integrity, meaning that the files are less likely to be tampered with during the download process. Users can trust that the files they are downloading have not been altered, providing an extra layer of security and confidence in the integrity of the files being accessed. This is particularly important for sensitive or critical files, where security is a top priority.

The other options do not relate specifically to the advantages of HTTPS. For example, faster download speeds or lower server load are not inherent benefits of using HTTPS, and higher file sizes are not a characteristic affected by the protocol itself. The primary advantage remains the security and protection that HTTPS provides through encryption.