Which of the following is part of a URL?

A protocol is indeed a fundamental component of a URL (Uniform Resource Locator). The protocol defines the method used to access resources on the internet, such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) or HTTPS (HTTP Secure). This is crucial because it communicates to the browser how it should fetch a particular resource—the protocol indicates whether to use a secure or non-secure way to transfer data.

In contrast, an editor and a hosting service are not parts of a URL. An editor refers to software or a tool used to create or modify web pages or code, while a hosting service provides the infrastructure for storing and serving web pages but does not form part of the URL itself. Thus, understanding the role of the protocol is essential for grasping how URLs function in the context of web development and resource access.