SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a protocol used to secure internet connections between servers and client devices (for example, computers, laptops, or smartphones).
SSL uses cryptography to encrypt data sent between the server and the client, so that only those who have the encryption key can read the data.
SSL is generally used on websites that carry out online transactions, such as e-commerce, to ensure the security of users’ personal data and financial information.
SSL is also used in mobile applications, internal corporate networks, and other internet networks that require a high level of security.
An SSL certificate is an electronic document issued by a trusted financial institution or security agency (such as Symantec or Comodo) that provides proof that a website or application has SSL enabled.
Users can verify the validity of an SSL certificate by clicking the lock icon or claw icon in their browser.
SSL functionality
The main function of SSL is to secure the internet connection between servers and client devices by using data encryption. By using SSL, data sent between the server and the client (for example, personal or financial information) cannot be accessed by parties who do not have the encryption key.
In addition, SSL also has several other functions, such as:
- Providing confidence to users that the websites or applications they access are genuine and safe to use.
- Prevent man-in-the-middle attacks, where irresponsible parties can spy on or tap a user’s internet connection.
- Validates the identity of the server or application that the user is using, so that the user can be sure that they are actually connecting to the server or application in question.
- Reduces the risk of phishing attacks, where users may be tricked by fake websites or apps that look like real websites or apps.
SSL is an important feature that can increase user security and trust in websites or applications that use it.
What is Transport Layer Security
Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a protocol that provides data communication security on the internet.
TLS is used to encrypt data sent between two devices and verify the identity of the sender to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.
TLS is typically used to protect web communications, e-mail, and other applications that send data over the internet.
How SSL Works
The way SSL works is as follows:
- The server sends an SSL certificate to the client device (for example, a computer or smartphone) that will connect to the server.
- The client device checks the validity of the SSL certificate by checking the digital signature contained in the certificate.
- If the SSL certificate is valid, the client device generates an encryption key that is used to encrypt data sent to the server.
- The server also generates the same encryption key to unlock the data sent by the client device.
- Once the encryption key is generated, both parties (server and client device) will start exchanging data using SSL encryption.
- The data sent will be encrypted by the encryption key that has been generated before being sent to the server or client device.
- The server or client device that receives the data will decrypt the data using the same encryption key.
Thus, SSL can guarantee the security of data sent between the server and client devices, so that only those who have the encryption key can read the data.