What is SSL ?

ssl.jpg Secure Socket Layer (SSL) is a protocol developed by Netscape in 1996 which quickly became the method of choice for securing data transmissions across the Internet. SSL is an integral part of most Web browsers and Web servers and makes use of the public-and-private key encryption system developed by Rivest, Shamir, and Adleman.

In order to make an SSL connection, the SSL protocol requires that a server should have a digital certificate installed. A digital certificate is an electronic file that uniquely identifies individuals and servers. Digital certificates serve as a kind of digital passport or credential which authenticate the server prior to the SSL session being established.

Typically, digital certificates are signed by an independent and trusted third party to ensure their validity. The "signer" of a certificate is known as a Certification Authority (CA), such as Symantec, thawte and GeoTrust.

The diagram illustrates the process that guarantees protected communications between a Web server and a client. All exchanges of SSL Certificates occur within seconds, and require no action by the consumer.

How It Works


An SSL certificate serves as a digital "passport" that allows data to be transmitted over secure networks — protecting financial and credit card transactions, signups, Web access to mail, sensitive information and intranets.

You should have a QuickSSL Premium certificate if you are collecting any personal information through your site or if you want to share confidential information over the Internet. By solving two essential security issues, authentication and encryption, SSLs protect your website against:

Spoofing: Unprotected website pages can be copied, and online criminals can use your domain name to collect money and personal information from your customers and visitors.

Unauthorized Disclosure: When sensitive information is sent unprotected over the Internet, it's easy for hackers to capture and use it for fraudulent activities.

Data Alteration: Transactions can be intercepted and edited either accidentally or intentionally.