What is SSL? Things to know about SSL security certificates

Have you ever seen URLs that start with http:// but also other URLs that start with https://. So where does that extra “s” come from and what does it mean? The technology that powers this little “s” is called SSL, which stands for “Secure Sockets Layer”. Let’s find out what SSL is and what you need to know about SSL certificates.

1. WHAT IS SSL? OVERVIEW OF SSL

1.1 What is SSL?

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is an Internet security protocol based on secure encryption between two systems. SSL was first developed by Netscape in 1995 to ensure privacy, authenticity, and data integrity in Internet communications. The two systems can be either a server and a client (e.g., a shopping site and a browser) or a server to a server (e.g., an application with personally identifiable information or payroll information).

1.2 What is TLS?

TLS (Transport Layer Security), transport layer security, is a more secure version of SSL. In 1999, the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) proposed an update to SSL. Since this update was developed by the IETF, it was renamed TLS. The difference between the final SSL 3.0 version and the first TLS version is not too big, the name change is to indicate the change in ownership.

SSL has not been updated since SSL version 3.0 in 1996. Most current Web browsers no longer support SSL. However, many security certificate providers refer to it as SSL certificates because this term is more commonly used and searched for by more people. In fact, when you buy SSL, you are buying a TLS certificate with ECC, RSA or DSA encryption options.

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1.3 Why is SSL/TLS important?

Initially, data on the Web is transmitted in clear text that anyone can read if they intercept the message.

For example: You visit an online shopping website and place an order. At the checkout step, you choose to pay by credit card, and your credit card number is then transmitted over the Internet without being hidden.

SSL was created to fix these problems and protect user privacy. By encrypting all data transmitted between the user and the Web server, SSL ensures that anyone who intercepts the data will only see a jumble of characters. This way, the consumer’s credit card number is safe and only visible on the shopping Web page where they entered the data.

SSL also prevents certain types of cyber attacks. It authenticates Web servers, which is important because cyber attackers often try to set up fake Web pages to trick users and steal data. SSL prevents attackers from tampering with data in transit, like an anti-counterfeit stamp on consumer products.

2. THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SSL CERTIFICATES

2.1 What is an SSL certificate?

SSL is only implemented by websites that have SSL certificates (technically called TLS certificates). SSL certificates are like an ID card or badge that proves someone is who they say they are.

SSL certificates are stored and displayed on the Web by the Web server or application. Visual cues to let users know they are protected by SSL:

• If a website has an SSL certificate, users will see the Web address start with https:// instead of http:// (the “s” stands for “security).
• Depending on the level of authentication of the business, a secure connection may be indicated by the presence of a green padlock in the green address bar.

The Certificate Authority (CA) is the entity responsible for issuing SSL certificates.

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2.2 Types of SSL certificates

SSL certificates can be applied to a website or a number of websites:

• Single-domain SSL Certificate: Only protects a single domain name.

For example: If you only register a Single-domain SSL Certificate for the domain adsmo.vn, then only this domain name will receive an SSL certificate.

• Wildcard SSL Certificate: Protects a main domain and subdomains. This certificate is suitable for businesses/organizations using many Sub domains.

For example: If you register a Wildcard SSL Certificate for the domain adsmo.vn, subdomains such as blog.adsmo.vn, shop.adsmo.vn,… will also receive an SSL certificate.

• Multi-Domain SSL Certificate: Protects multiple domains and their subdomains. Suitable for businesses/organizations that own dozens of domains and subdomains. Save time and cost of domain renewal domain.

2.3 How does an SSL certificate work?

• SSL starts working after a TCP connection is established, starting a handshake protocol, called the SSL Handshake.
• The server sends the certificate to the user with some specifications such as which SSL/TLS version, which encryption method to use, etc.
• The user will check the validity of the certificate and choose the highest level of encryption that can be supported by both parties and initiate a secure session using these methods. There are many sets of encryption methods available with different strengths, these are called cipher suites.
• To ensure the integrity and authenticity of all messages transferred, SSL/TLS includes an authentication process using a cryptographic message authentication code (MAC).

ADSMO provides professional website design services supported by the installation of reputable and quality SSL website security certificates. Please contact hotline 0356.105.388 for the most detailed and accurate quote.

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