What is SSL/TLS?
Cryptographic protocols that provide secure communication over computer networks.
Detailed Explanation
TLS (Transport Layer Security) and its predecessor SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encrypt data transmitted between applications. TLS is widely used in HTTPS, email, and VPNs. It uses certificates to verify server identity and establishes encrypted sessions through a handshake process. Modern security requires TLS 1.2 or 1.3, as older versions have known vulnerabilities.
Examples
- •HTTPS websites use TLS to encrypt web traffic
- •Email clients use STARTTLS to secure SMTP connections
- •Certificate shows green padlock in browser address bar