Which of the following encryption options establishes an encrypted link between a web server and a browser ensuring privacy and integrity of data?

The answer centers around the functionality of Secure Socket Layer (SSL), which is designed specifically to establish an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This encrypted connection ensures that the data transmitted over the internet remains confidential and is protected from interception or tampering.

SSL operates by establishing a secure session through a process known as the SSL handshake, where the server and client authenticate each other and negotiate encryption algorithms. Once this secure link is established, any data transferred is encrypted, providing both privacy and integrity, meaning that the data remains private from eavesdroppers and unchanged during transmission.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes within the realm of network security but do not specifically establish an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. For instance, Secure Socket Shell (SSH) primarily functions for secure remote login and command execution, while Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides a secure tunnel for all types of internet traffic, and IPsec gateway focuses on encrypting data at the network layer, rather than at the application layer like SSL. Thus, the unique capability of SSL to protect web communications is why it is the correct answer.