Secure Sockets Layer Certificate (SSL Certificate)
Search Security, Tuesday, October 17,2023
A Secure Sockets Layer certificate (SSL certificate) is a small data file installed on a web server that allows for a secure, encrypted connection between the server and a web browser. This digital certificate allows a website to implement the SSL encryption-based security protocol. It also authenticates the site's identity, secures online transactions performed through it and keeps user information secure and private.
SSL protocol and SSL certificate
SSL is an encryption-based security protocol that helps secure connections between web clients and servers over insecure networks, including the internet. The protocol encrypts the sensitive data traveling between a web client, i.e., a user, and a web server, thereby ensuring that it cannot be read or tampered with by anyone who is not authorized to have access to the data.
One example of sensitive data protected by SSL is financial information, such as credit card numbers.