What is the function of File Transfer Protocol Secure (FTPS)?

The function of File Transfer Protocol Secure (FTPS) is to facilitate file transfers while incorporating security features through encryption. Specifically, FTPS extends the standard File Transfer Protocol (FTP) by using SSL (Secure Socket Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) to provide a secure channel over which data can be transmitted. This is critical for protecting sensitive information during transit, as it ensures that the data being sent is encrypted, preventing unauthorized access and maintaining data integrity.

The primary advantage of FTPS is that it not only allows for the efficient transfer of files but does so in a way that secures the connection against potential eavesdroppers and attackers. Utilizing SSL/TLS helps in authenticating the server (and optionally the client), ensuring that both parties in the communication are trustworthy.

In contrast, other choices illustrate protocols with different functionalities or lack of security measures. For example, one choice suggests file transfers without encryption, which does not align with the key features of FTPS. Another option describes a remote access protocol, which is unrelated to the purposes of FTPS. Lastly, a network monitoring protocol would not involve file transfers at all. Thus, recognizing FTPS as a protocol that secures file transfers through encryption using SSL/TLS is paramount for understanding