What is SSL?

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a method of encryption that protects data being sent between websites. SSL is closely related to Transport Layer Security (TLS), another encryption method, and the two acronyms are often used interchangeably.

Example

Here’s how SSL works in this scenario:

  1. Encryption: Your web browser establishes a secure connection with the e-commerce website’s server using SSL encryption. This encryption process converts your credit card information into a secure format that can only be deciphered by the intended recipient—the web server.
  2. Data Transmission: Once the secure connection is established, your encrypted credit card information is transmitted securely over the internet to the e-commerce website’s server.
  3. Decryption: Upon receiving the encrypted data, the e-commerce website’s server uses a private key to decrypt the information and retrieve your credit card details.
  4. Processing: The server processes your payment transaction securely, and if the transaction is successful, you receive a confirmation message.

By encrypting data during transmission, SSL protects sensitive information from being intercepted or tampered with by hackers or malicious actors. This enhances the security and trustworthiness of online transactions, making SSL an essential component of secure internet communication.

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