Q. What is the difference between http:// and https:// in web page addresses? I understand the extra 's' stands for secure. Is this important in the transfer of confidential information?

A. You will see https in the webpage address when you connect your browser to gmail or to your online banking. It stands for hypertext transfer protocol secure (https). It is a combination of the original http that started off the world wide web and transport layer security (TLS). TLS encrypts the data flowing between you and the web server. The two parties use digital certificates to authenticate themselves.

TLS works well and is seamless to the user, so it does not interfere with the user interface. If you ever have the option to use it when communicating with a service, you should do so. All modern web browsers support TLS. When you connect to healthlink.ie to download results or send electronic referrals, the communication is secured with TLS. You should also look out for https when you are doing security sensitive tasks such as giving your credit card information. It is not always available but it is reassuring when it is.