What is SSL?

January 6, 2024

SSL, which stands for Secure Sockets Layer, is a standard security protocol for establishing encrypted links between a web server and a browser in online communication. This encryption ensures that data transmitted between the server and the browser remains secure and confidential. SSL has been succeeded by Transport Layer Security (TLS)

Here are key features of SSL:

1. Encryption:
   • SSL employs encryption algorithms to secure data transmitted between the user’s browser and the web server. This prevents unauthorized access to sensitive information such as login credentials, personal details, and financial data.
2. Data Integrity:
   • It ensures the integrity of data during transmission. It prevents data from being tampered with or altered while in transit between the client and the server.
3. Authentication:
   • It provides a mechanism for authenticating the identity of the web server. This authentication helps users ensure that they are connecting to the legitimate website and not a malicious entity posing as the intended site.
4. Trust and Credibility:
   • Websites with SSL certificates display a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating a secure connection. Extended Validation (EV) certificates even turn the address bar green, providing a visual cue that the website has undergone rigorous validation. This builds trust and credibility among users.
5. HTTPS Protocol:
   • SSL is often used in conjunction with the HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) protocol. Websites using HTTPS encrypt the data exchanged between the user’s browser and the server, providing a secure and private browsing experience.
6. SSL Certificates:
   • SSL relies on digital certificates issued by Certificate Authorities (CAs). These certificates contain the public key of the website and information about the website owner. When a user connects to a website secured with SSL, the server presents its SSL certificate to the browser for verification.
7. Symmetric and Asymmetric Encryption:
   • It use a combination of symmetric and asymmetric encryption. Symmetric encryption is efficient for encrypting large amounts of data, while asymmetric encryption is used for secure key exchange and digital signatures.
8. Session Persistence:
   • It ensures session persistence, allowing the secure connection to persist over multiple requests and responses between the client and server during a single session.
9. Compatibility:
   • It is compatible with various web browsers and operating systems, making it a widely adopted standard for securing online communications.
10. Evolution to TLS:
    • While the term “Secure Sockets Layer ” is still commonly used, the protocol has evolved into Transport Layer Security (TLS). TLS versions have improved security features and address vulnerabilities found in earlier SSL versions.
11. SSL/TLS Handshake:
    • The SSL/TLS handshake is a process where the client and server exchange cryptographic parameters, authenticate each other, and establish a secure connection. This handshake occurs before any data is transmitted.
12. Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS):
    • Some modern implementations of SSL/TLS support Perfect Forward Secrecy, which ensures that even if the server’s private key is compromised, past communications remain secure.

Types of Secure Sockets Layer 

1.Extended Validation (EV)

2.Organization Validated (OV)

 3.Domain Validated (DV)

1.Extended Validation

An Extended Validation (EV) Certificate is a type of certificate that verifies that the certificate holder has undergone the most extensive level of vetting and identity background checks to certify that their website is authentic and legitimate. EV certificates are often required for high-profile brands, banks and other Fortune 500 companies.

2.Organization Validated

An Organization Validation (OV) The Certificate is a mid-tier, high-assurance certificate. OV certificates are authenticated with nine validation steps by Certificate Authorities. CAs confirm domain ownership and that the business organization affiliated with the certificate is valid and remains in good standing.

3.Domain Validated

Domain Validated (DV) is a type of certificate that verifies the ownership of a domain. It’s the most basic form of the certificate and offers encryption for data transmitted between the user’s browser and the server. Here are key aspects of Domain Validated:

Implementing is essential for securing sensitive information on the internet, and it has become a standard practice for websites, especially those handling financial transactions, login credentials, or personal data. It plays a critical role in enhancing online security and protecting user privacy.