Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)

Definition

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a standard security protocol that establishes encrypted links between networked computers, ensuring the privacy and integrity of data transmitted over the internet. SSL is critical for e-commerce and online transactions, as it protects sensitive information such as credit card numbers and personal details from unauthorized access during transmission. It uses a combination of encryption, authentication, and integrity to create secure connections, making it essential for maintaining user trust in online platforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. SSL was developed by Netscape in the 1990s and has since evolved, with TLS becoming its modern counterpart for better security.
2. SSL operates on top of the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), which ensures reliable delivery of data packets between computers.
3. A website that uses SSL can be identified by 'https://' in its URL, indicating that the connection is secure.
4. SSL certificates must be issued by trusted Certificate Authorities (CAs) that verify the identity of organizations before providing them with a certificate.
5. The handshake process in SSL establishes a secure connection by negotiating encryption algorithms and exchanging keys between the client and server.

Review Questions

• How does SSL contribute to securing e-commerce transactions?
  • SSL contributes to securing e-commerce transactions by encrypting sensitive information transmitted between customers and online merchants. This encryption prevents unauthorized parties from intercepting data such as credit card numbers and personal identification. By using SSL, businesses can assure customers that their information is safe, fostering trust and encouraging online shopping.
• Discuss the role of Certificate Authorities in the SSL ecosystem.
  • Certificate Authorities (CAs) play a crucial role in the SSL ecosystem by issuing digital certificates that verify the identity of websites. These certificates ensure that users are connecting to legitimate sites rather than malicious impersonators. When a user connects to a site with SSL, the CA's verification process helps build trust by confirming that the entity behind the website is authentic and entitled to use that domain.
• Evaluate the impact of SSL on consumer trust in online transactions and its implications for e-commerce growth.
  • SSL significantly impacts consumer trust in online transactions by providing a secure environment for data exchange. The assurance that personal and financial information is protected encourages more consumers to engage in online shopping. As SSL enhances security, e-commerce growth is positively influenced; businesses adopting SSL are more likely to attract customers who prioritize privacy and data protection. This growing trust leads to increased sales and the expansion of online markets.

Related terms

Transport Layer Security (TLS): Transport Layer Security (TLS) is the successor to SSL and provides a more secure protocol for encrypting communications over a network.

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI): Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is a framework that enables secure communication through the use of digital certificates and public key encryption.

Digital Certificate: A digital certificate is an electronic document used to prove the ownership of a public key, facilitating secure communications by verifying the identity of the parties involved.