What protocol is most likely used to download applications from an online store?

The protocol most likely used to download applications from an online store is HTTPS.

HTTPS, which stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure, is the secure version of HTTP. It utilizes encryption (SSL/TLS) to protect the data being transmitted between the user’s browser and the online store. This security is crucial when downloading applications, as it helps prevent data breaches and protects sensitive information such as payment details and personal data during the transaction process.

In the context of downloading applications, users typically interact with online stores through web-based interfaces that require secure connections to protect both the user and the service providers. Therefore, the use of HTTPS ensures that the application downloaded is safe and the transaction process is secure.

The other protocols like FTP (File Transfer Protocol) are generally used for transferring files between clients and servers but do not inherently provide encryption, making them less suitable for secure transactions typical in online stores. HTTP also does not offer the level of security that HTTPS does, which is vital for protecting user information. SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is mainly utilized for sending emails and is not relevant to downloading applications.