While configuring an email client to send messages, which protocol (and its secure variant) is most commonly used to ensure that outgoing email communications are encrypted?

Correct option is B

SMTP over TLS (SMTPS) is the secure version of the Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP), which ensures that outgoing email communications are encrypted. This encryption helps protect the confidentiality of email content as it is transmitted over the network.
Important Key Points:
1. SMTP over TLS (SMTPS): SMTP is the protocol used for sending emails, and when it is secured with TLS (Transport Layer Security), it becomes SMTPS. This ensures that the email content is encrypted during transmission, preventing unauthorized access or tampering.
2. Email Encryption: TLS encryption ensures secure communication between email servers, safeguarding sensitive email content from interception or eavesdropping during transit.
3. Commonly Used Protocol: SMTPS is commonly configured in email clients for secure email sending, making it the most widely used encrypted protocol for outgoing emails.
Knowledge Booster:
· POP3: POP3 (Post Office Protocol 3) is used for receiving emails, not sending them. It does not provide encryption for sending emails and is therefore not suitable for this purpose.
· SMTP: SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is used for sending emails, but it does not have built-in encryption. Without additional security measures like TLS, SMTP does not ensure email encryption.
· IMAP: IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) is used for receiving emails, not sending them. It does not encrypt outgoing email communications, and hence, it is not relevant in this context.