SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) ensures the security of sensitive data by providing encryption, authentication, and integrity.
1. Encryption: SSL/TLS uses strong encryption algorithms which convert the sensitive data into an unintelligible code or “cyphertext” that can only be read with the correct decryption key. This means that even if someone intercepts the data, they will not be able to read it.
1. Authentication: SSL/TLS verifies the identity of both the client and the server by using digital certificates. A trusted third-party Certificate Authority (CA) issues these certificates, which contain information about the owner of the certificate (either the server or the client) and the public key associated with the certificate. This ensures that the data is being transmitted to the intended recipient, and not to an imposter.
1. Integrity: SSL/TLS also ensures that the data has not been tampered with during transmission by using a message authentication code (MAC). This code is generated using a hash function and a secret key and is appended to the data being sent. Upon receipt, the receiver can recompute the MAC and compare it to the one sent to ensure data integrity.
Together, these three components of SSL/TLS provide a secure and reliable means of transmitting sensitive data over the internet.
