SSL (Secure Sockets Layer)

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, a security protocol for encrypting data between two systems. It is widely used to secure the connection between a web server and a web browser. SSL encrypts sensitive data such as passwords, credit card information, and personal details before transmission.

This ensures that only the intended recipient can read the data and prevents third parties from intercepting it. A website that implements SSL/TLS displays "https" instead of "http" in its URL.

How does SSL work?

When a website uses SSL, a secure connection is established between the web server and the web browser. This is done using an SSL certificate, which is a trusted third party, such as a certificate authority issue.

The certificate contains a public key that the web browser can use to encrypt the data and a private key known only to the web server and used to decrypt the data. This allows information to be exchanged safely between the web server and the web browser.

What is TLS?

TLS stands for Transport Layer Security and is the successor to SSL. TLS works the same way as SSL but has improved the protocol to enhance security further. Although SSL is still widely used, TLS is the standard.

The difference between SSL and TLS

Although SSL and TLS are similar in many ways, there are some important differences between the two. As mentioned earlier, TLS is the successor to SSL and has improved the protocol. TLS also uses different cryptographic algorithms than SSL to encrypt data and has better key exchange to enhance security further.

Is SSL still up to date?

SSL is still up to date, but TLS is more secure nowadays. If you own a website, it is advisable to switch to TLS. This is not only safer but could also have a positive impact on your SEO. Google has announced that websites using TLS could receive a higher position in search results.

Types of SSL certificates

Different types of SSL certificates are available, ranging from simple certificates to extended certificates with additional security features. Here are some common types of SSL certificates:

Domain validation SSL certificates

Domain validation SSL certificates are the most common and simple SSL certificates. These certificates only verify whether the certificate's applicant is the domain name's owner. This allows the web browser to verify that the connection is secure and that the website you are visiting is what you think it is.

Organisation validation SSL certificates

Organisation validation SSL certificates provide a higher level of security and verify that the applicant is the owner of the domain name and that the applicant is a legitimate organisation. These certificates are recommended for companies and organisations that process sensitive information.

Extended Validation SSL certificates

Extended Validation SSL certificates provide the highest level of security and verification. These certificates verify that the applicant is the owner of the domain name and a legitimate organisation and that the applicant has the right to use the requested certificate. This is done by conducting extensive verification of the applicant.