Which part of a URL indicates the type of resource being accessed?

The part of a URL that indicates the type of resource being accessed is the protocol. The protocol specifies how data should be transferred on the internet, thus determining the type of communication that will take place. Common protocols include HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (HTTP Secure), which are used to access web pages. By identifying the protocol, users and browsers understand how to handle the resource linked to the URL, ensuring the correct method is used for accessing the resource.

The domain name typically refers to the address of the website and does not provide information about the type of resource. The path further specifies a particular resource within the domain but does not indicate its format or communication method. The fragment is a section identifier for a specific part of a webpage, offering no insights into the resource's type. Hence, the protocol is the key element in understanding how to interact with the requested resource.