- A
HTTPS
HTTPS uses TLS/SSL to encrypt data between client and server, and requires a certificate.
- B
HTTP
Why wrong: HTTP transmits data in plain text, offering no encryption.
- C
FTP
Why wrong: FTP is for file transfer and does not encrypt data by default; it is not used for web traffic.
- D
SSH
Why wrong: SSH is used for secure remote administration, not for web server-client communication.
Question 464 of 1,020
HTTPS: Using Certificates to Encrypt Web Server Traffic
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of network protocols. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A company deploys a new web server and wants to ensure that data transmitted between clients and the server is encrypted. The technician configures the server to use a certificate. Which protocol should be enabled on the server?
Quick Answer
The answer is HTTPS, which must be enabled on the web server to encrypt traffic using a certificate. HTTPS combines standard HTTP with TLS/SSL protocols, creating an encrypted tunnel that protects data transmitted between clients and the server. The certificate itself is a digital file that authenticates the server’s identity and facilitates the encryption handshake, ensuring that sensitive information like login credentials or payment details cannot be intercepted in plaintext. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of secure web communication, often appearing in questions about configuring server roles or network security. A common trap is confusing HTTPS with a firewall rule or VPN—remember that HTTPS specifically relies on port 443 and a certificate, not just any encryption method. For a quick memory tip: think “HTTP + Security = HTTPS,” where the ‘S’ stands for the secure layer provided by the certificate.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
HTTPS
HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypts data between clients and a web server using TLS/SSL. The certificate you configured on the server is used to establish a trusted, encrypted session, ensuring confidentiality and integrity of transmitted data.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
HTTPS
- ✗
HTTP
Why it's wrong here
HTTP transmits data in plain text, offering no encryption.
- ✗
FTP
Why it's wrong here
FTP is for file transfer and does not encrypt data by default; it is not used for web traffic.
- ✗
SSH
Why it's wrong here
SSH is used for secure remote administration, not for web server-client communication.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
CompTIA A+ often tests the distinction between secure and insecure protocols, and the trap here is that candidates may confuse SSH (used for secure remote shell access) with HTTPS (used for secure web traffic), or think that HTTP with a certificate is sufficient without enabling the encryption layer.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
HTTPS operates on TCP port 443 and uses TLS handshake to negotiate cipher suites, exchange certificates, and generate session keys. The server's certificate must be signed by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks; self-signed certificates will trigger browser warnings. In real-world deployments, HTTPS is enforced via HSTS headers to prevent downgrade attacks.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 220-1201 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
- →
Network Protocols — study guide chapter
Learn the concepts, then practise the questions
- →
Network Protocols practice questions
Targeted practice on this topic area only
- →
All 220-1201 questions
1,020 questions across all exam domains
- →
CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 study guide
Full concept coverage aligned to exam objectives
- →
220-1201 practice test guide
How to use practice tests most effectively before exam day
Related practice questions
Related 220-1201 practice-question pages
Use these pages to review the topic behind this question. This is how one missed question becomes focused revision.
Mobile Device Hardware Servicing practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Hardware Servicing.
Mobile Device Connection Methods practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Connection Methods.
Mobile Device Accessories practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Accessories.
Mobile Device Network Connectivity practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Network Connectivity.
Mobile Device Application Support practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Mobile Device Application Support.
Network Protocols practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Network Protocols.
TCP & UDP Ports practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to TCP & UDP Ports.
Wireless Networking Technologies practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Wireless Networking Technologies.
Network Services practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Network Services.
Network Configuration Concepts practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Network Configuration Concepts.
Common Networking Hardware practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to Common Networking Hardware.
IP Addressing practice questions
Practise 220-1201 questions linked to IP Addressing.
Practice this exam
Start a free 220-1201 practice session
Short sessions build daily habit. Longer sessions build exam-day stamina. Try a timed session to simulate real conditions.
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 220-1201 question test?
Network Protocols — This question tests Network Protocols — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: HTTPS — HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypts data between clients and a web server using TLS/SSL. The certificate you configured on the server is used to establish a trusted, encrypted session, ensuring confidentiality and integrity of transmitted data.
What should I do if I get this 220-1201 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
Courseiva creates original exam-style practice questions with explanations and wrong-answer analysis. It does not publish real exam questions, exam dumps, or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
Keep practising
More 220-1201 practice questions
- During a network cable installation, a technician needs to verify that a newly run Cat6 cable is properly terminated and…
- A user connects a 4K monitor to their laptop using a USB-C port. The monitor is detected, but the resolution is stuck at…
- A technician is troubleshooting a laptop that will not charge. The battery is removable, and the power adapter works on…
- A customer brings in a smartphone with a broken charging port. They want the port replaced. During disassembly, the tech…
- A user reports that their laptop's keyboard types random characters when certain keys are pressed. The laptop has not be…
- A technician is troubleshooting a laptop that shuts down randomly after a few minutes of use. The fan is spinning, and t…
Last reviewed: Jul 4, 2026
This 220-1201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1201 exam.
Question Discussion
Share a tip, memory trick, or ask about the reasoning behind this question. Do not post real exam questions, leaked content, braindumps, or copyrighted exam material. Comments are moderated and may be removed without notice.
Sign in to join the discussion.