Which term refers to a protocol that ensures secure communications over a network?

The correct answer is SSL, which stands for Secure Sockets Layer. SSL is a standard security protocol that establishes an encrypted link between a server and a client, typically a web server and a browser. This encryption ensures that any data transmitted over the network is secure from eavesdroppers, helping to maintain confidentiality and integrity.

SSL is fundamental to secure communications, particularly for transactions that involve sensitive information, such as personal data or financial details. It is widely used on the internet to secure web communications, displaying a padlock icon in the browser's address bar when secured properly. This ensures users can trust that their communications are private.

While other terms like VPN (Virtual Private Network) also contribute to secure communications by creating encrypted tunnels for data transfer, SSL specifically refers to the protocol that directly encrypts the data in transit. GFE (Government Furnished Equipment) and RESCUE do not pertain to network security protocols, making SSL the clear choice related to ensuring secure network communications.