Explore SSL Full Form – A Journey into Secure Connections

Netscape Communications developed SSL technology in the mid-90s. An SSL connection means the data between the browser and website server remains private. Malicious actors cannot intercept it.

If you’ve ever wondered what SSL stands for and why it’s crucial for secure online communication, you’ve come to the right place. We will embark on a journey to explore SSL’s full form and discover its significance for any secure website.

Before that, you should learn more about cybersecurity. 

What is SSL Full Form?

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It’s a cryptographic protocol that provides a secure and encrypted connection between a user’s web browser and a website’s server. 

Importance of SSL

Consider this. You are sending a highly confidential message to your friend over the Internet. 

Without SSL, your message could be easily intercepted by unauthorised parties. Now, that will expose your sensitive information. 

SSL acts as a digital bodyguard. It protects your data from prying eyes and safely reaches its destination.

The main reasons why SSL is important are mentioned below. 

• Safeguards your personal and financial data during online transactions. One example can be purchasing goods from an eCommerce website.
• Builds trust between websites and their users. A padlock icon or “HTTPS” appears in the browser’s address bar when the address is an SSL connection. This indicates a secure connection. And this trust is vital for businesses to thrive in the digital world.

(Do note that Google will discontinue the padlock icon by September 2023.) 

Relationship Between SSL and HTTPS

SSL is the technology that provides encryption and security for HTTPS connections. When a website uses HTTPS, it has an SSL certificate installed on its server.

When a user’s web browser connects to a website that uses HTTPS, the SSL protocol comes into action. Websites that do not have an SSL certificate have an HTTP connection. Do review our page on the difference between HTTP and HTTPS.

The SSL handshake process initiates a secure connection between the browser and the website’s server. This handshake involves exchanging public keys, encryption algorithms, and other information. These are necessary to establish a secure channel.

How do SSL Certificates Work?

Websites get SSL certificates from trusted third-party providers known as Certificate Authorities (CAs). These certificates contain a public key that encrypts data and a private key that decrypts it. 

So, when your browser connects to a secure website, it retrieves the site’s SSL certificate and verifies its authenticity with the CA. Once verified, a secure connection is established, and your data remains protected throughout the session.

Obtaining an SSL Certificate

To obtain an SSL certificate, website owners need to go through a validation process with the CA. The CA verifies the website owner’s identity and domain ownership before issuing the certificate. 

Types of SSL Certificates

Different types of SSL certificates are available, each catering to specific security needs.

Extended Validation Certificates (EV SSL)

EV SSL certificates offer the highest level of validation. E-commerce giants and financial institutions often use them. The extensive validation process involves rigorous checks to confirm the organisation’s identity. 

Organization Validated Certificates (OV SSL)

OV SSL certificates provide a moderate level of validation. The CA verifies the organisation’s identity before issuing the certificate. While not as thorough as EV SSL, it still ensures a secure connection.

Domain Validated Certificates (DV SSL)

DV SSL certificates are the most common type and offer basic validation. 

The CA verifies domain ownership before issuing the certificate. While it’s not as rigorous as OV or EV SSL, DV SSL is still effective for securing websites.

Wildcard SSL Certificates

Wildcard SSL certificates secure a domain and its subdomains with a single certificate. This makes it ideal for websites with multiple subdomains.

Multi-Domain SSL Certificate (MDC)

MDC certificates, or Subject Alternative Name (SAN) certificates, secure multiple domains under a single certificate.

Unified Communications Certificate (UCC)

UCC certificates are designed to secure communication for Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft Office Communications servers.

SSL vs TLS

TLS (Transport Layer Security) is the successor of SSL, and the terms are often used interchangeably. In fact, TLS has improved security features. It is more robust than SSL and is widely adopted.

SSL relies on weaker hash functions and lacks forward secrecy support. That makes it more susceptible to attacks. On the other hand, TLS employs stronger hash functions, provides forward secrecy, and is widely adopted as the standard for secure internet communication.

Further Reads

• Differences between SSL and TLS
• ISP Full Form