SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) protocol is a set of cryptographic protocols designed to secure communication over the internet. Here’s how it works:
1. Handshake: The SSL/TLS handshake begins with the client sending a “hello” message to the server, along with the supported encryption algorithms and the client’s public key. The server responds with a “hello” message and its own public key.
1. Authentication: The client verifies the server’s identity by checking its digital certificate. This certificate is issued by a trusted third-party called a Certificate Authority (CA) and contains the server’s public key.
1. Key exchange: Once the server is authenticated, the client and server use the public keys exchanged during the handshake to generate a unique session key. This session key will be used to encrypt and decrypt all data exchanged during the SSL/TLS session.
1. Data transfer: The data is encrypted using the session key and transmitted between the client and server. This data can only be decrypted with the session key, which is securely stored on the client and server.
1. Termination: The SSL/TLS session terminates when the client or server sends a termination request, the session times out, or the connection is lost.
Throughout each step of the process, SSL/TLS protocol ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of the communication between the client and server, making it a reliable and secure method of transmitting sensitive information over the internet.
