SSL
SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, is a security protocol that creates an encrypted link between a web server and a web browser to protect data transmitted over the internet. It ensures secure communication by encrypting sensitive information like credit card numbers and passwords, and it verifies a website's identity to prevent users from connecting to fraudulent sites. While the term "SSL" is still commonly used, the actual protocol has been replaced by a more secure version called Transport Layer Security (TLS), which is often still referred to as SSL.
Function: SSL encrypts data to ensure confidentiality and integrity, meaning the information is scrambled so only the intended recipient can read it, and it has not been tampered with during transit.
Implementation: When a website has SSL enabled, the connection is secured, and the URL in the browser address bar will show "https://" instead of "http:". A padlock icon also appears in the address bar to indicate a secure connection.
Certificates: To enable SSL, a website must have a digital SSL certificate issued by a certificate authority (CA). This certificate authenticates the website's identity and contains the public key needed to establish the encrypted connection.
Evolution to TLS: SSL was developed in the 1990s and has been superseded by TLS. The current standard is TLS, but many people continue to use the term SSL out of habit.
Importance: SSL/TLS is crucial for online security, protecting users during online transactions and sensitive data exchanges, and it can also positively impact a website's search engine ranking.
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