Which statement correctly describes a well-known protocol used for transferring data on the web?

The statement that HTTP facilitates the display of web pages and transfer of data is accurate because Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the foundation of data communication on the World Wide Web. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, and how web servers and browsers should respond to various commands. When a user enters a URL into a web browser, the browser uses HTTP to request the content from the server, which then sends back the requested web pages or resources, allowing users to view them seamlessly. This functionality is essential for rendering web content effectively and enabling the interactive experiences found on modern websites.

The other statements provide misleading or incorrect information about HTTP. While security is critical for online communication, HTTP by itself does not ensure secure communication; that role is fulfilled by HTTPS, which incorporates encryption using SSL/TLS. Routing internet traffic is beyond the scope of HTTP and involves other protocols like IP or routing protocols. Lastly, HTTP does not encrypt user data, which is what HTTPS is designed to accomplish, ensuring that sensitive information is kept secure during transmission.