Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL, is an internet security protocol that encrypts the link connecting data in the web browser and the server. It is associated with encryption, authentication, and data integrity. It was developed by Netscape in 1995, and was then updated to Transport Layer Security (TLS). However, both terms are often used interchangeably.

SSL encryption

Understanding the use of SSL encryption

SSL/TLS is primarily used to encrypt data transmitted between a client (such as a web browser) and a server, ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity. This encryption is crucial for protecting sensitive information like credit card numbers, login credentials, and personal data from being intercepted or tampered with by malicious actors.

Websites with SSL have "HTTPS" in their URL, as opposed to "HTTP" to provide a layer of security to online communications. In this manner, information entered into the website that travels to the server is encrypted to protect the data against security breaches. In case the data is accessed through a breach, only a random string of jumbled letters, numbers, and characters would be accessible, making decryption complex.

Functions of SSL encryption

SSL authenticates websites, and maintains data integrity by digitally signing data as a mark of confirmation that the data has not been tampered with. SSL authenticates websites through the handshake protocol. The handshake protocol is used to establish sessions between the user and the server. For this purpose, a series of exchanges across different phases occur between the browser, known as the client, and the server, including the exchange of client-keys and server-keys to authenticate both the client and the server. There are other protocols involved, such as the SSL record protocol which encrypts and compresses the data with MAC (Message Authentication Code), the change cipher spec protocol which is implemented after the handshake protocol, and the alert protocol for warnings and alerts.

SSL certification

An SSL certificate is used to verify the identity of the website. It is issued by a trusted third-party known as the Certificate Authority (CA). There are various levels of validation with different requirements used by the CA before issuing the SSL certificate. These levels are domain validation (DV), organizational validation (OV), and external validation (EV). Each level of validation comes with varied pricing in order to obtain the certification. Different types of certificates include single-domain SSL certificates, wildcard SSL certificates, and multi-domain SSL certificates.

SSL for merchants

For merchants, SSL/TLS is the backbone of secure online transactions. When a customer initiates a payment on a merchant's website, SSL/TLS encrypts the data exchanged between the customer's browser and the merchant's server. Merchants can implement SSL on their websites to improve data security.

Many payment gateways, processors, and third-party services require SSL/TLS encryption for integration. By having SSL/TLS in place, merchants can easily integrate with these services to ensure secure and efficient payment processing. For example, Zoho Payments offers SSL encryption for data. Implementing SSL makes transactions more secure and aids in data protection. It helps in the authentication of websites, protects cardholder information, helps improve search engine rankings, and provides an additional layer of security against phishing scams.

Customers are more likely to complete a purchase on a website they trust. Having the padlock symbol on websites, along with "HTTPS" in the URL, provides an indication of SSL implementation. This trust is crucial for converting visitors into paying customers and fostering long-term loyalty.

Conclusion

SSL/TLS remains the cornerstone of internet security, providing essential encryption for protecting data in transit. These protocols have evolved to address emerging threats and enhance security. By understanding the importance and functionality of SSL/TLS, various protocols, and the encryption mechanisms, merchants can better appreciate the critical role SSL/TLS plays in safeguarding online communications and transactions. They can enhance the security of their payment solutions, protect sensitive data, and provide a safe shopping environment for their customers.