What does HTTP stand for?

HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol, which is the foundational protocol used for transmitting data over the World Wide Web. It facilitates the communication between web browsers and servers, allowing users to access and retrieve web pages. The term "hypertext" refers to the way data is organized and linked to other data, which is essential for browsing web content.

This protocol defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, and it specifies how web servers and browsers should respond to various requests. The correct understanding of HTTP is crucial for web design and development, as it impacts web performance, SEO, and security.

Other interpretations of HTTP, such as the options suggesting "Transfer" or "Transmission" as part of the definition, misrepresent the core essence of the protocol, which focuses specifically on the transfer of hypertext among internet resources. Thus, the correct answer clearly encapsulates the primary function and structure of the protocol.