What is SSL/TLS?
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and its successor TLS (Transport Layer Security) are protocols that encrypt data transmitted between a user’s browser and a web server. This encryption ensures confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of communications over the internet.
How SSL/TLS Works:
- Handshake: The client and server negotiate encryption algorithms and exchange keys securely.
- Encryption: Data is encrypted using symmetric encryption for speed, with keys exchanged securely via asymmetric encryption.
- Authentication: Certificates issued by trusted authorities verify the server’s identity.
Benefits of SSL/TLS:
- Protects sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal data.
- Prevents eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.
- Improves search engine rankings (HTTPS is a ranking factor).
- Builds user trust through secure connections (lock icon in browsers).
Modern websites should always use TLS 1.2 or higher, and certificates must be renewed regularly to maintain security.