Which set of protocols should be preferred over insecure alternatives?

• A. Secure protocols such as HTTPS, SFTP, and SSH should be preferred.
• B. FTP, Telnet, and HTTP should be preferred.
• C. ICMP and ARP are secure protocols.
• D. SMTP with no encryption.

Answer: (A)

Protecting data in transit means using protocols that encrypt and authenticate traffic. HTTPS, SFTP, and SSH provide encryption and proper authentication, so sensitive information like passwords and files aren’t exposed as they travel over the network. In contrast, FTP, Telnet, and plain HTTP send credentials and content in clear text, making them easy targets for eavesdropping and tampering. SMTP without encryption also exposes email content and credentials. ICMP and ARP aren’t security protocols and don’t provide encryption or authentication. So the best choice is to rely on secure counterparts—HTTPS, SFTP, and SSH—over insecure alternatives.