Which of the following is an advantage of using SSL certificates in web applications?

Using SSL certificates in web applications significantly enhances data security during transmission. When SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is implemented, it encrypts the data exchanged between the user's browser and the web server. This encryption prevents unauthorized parties from intercepting and accessing sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, personal details, and login credentials while it is being transmitted over the internet.

By ensuring that the data remains confidential and secure from eavesdropping or tampering, SSL certificates help build user trust and increase confidence in the website’s security. This is especially crucial for applications that handle sensitive data or engage in financial transactions.

Other options do not directly relate to the primary advantage of SSL certificates. For instance, while page load times can be influenced by many factors, SSL itself does not inherently improve them. Likewise, hosting costs are typically independent of whether SSL is used, and website design remains unaffected by the presence of SSL certificates. Therefore, the primary benefit provided by SSL certificates is their role in enhancing data security during transmission.