Transport Layer Security (TLS) is like a bodyguard for your internet communication. It’s a protocol (set of rules) that makes sure when your computer talks to a server over the internet, the conversation is private, secure, and trustworthy.
- Keeps Your Secrets Safe:
- It ensures that the information you send and receive online stays private. No one should be able to eavesdrop on your conversations.
- Makes Sure Nobody Messes with Your Data:
- TLS guarantees that the data you send or receive hasn’t been tampered with during its journey through the internet. It’s like putting a lock on your digital messages.
- Successor to SSL:
- TLS is an upgraded version of the Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocol. It’s like a newer and improved model of the same security concept.
- Widely Used in Everyday Internet Activities:
- Whenever you use a web browser, send files, connect to a VPN, use remote desktops, or make Voice over IP (VoIP) calls, TLS is working behind the scenes to keep everything secure.
- Critical for Online Security:
- TLS is crucial for securing things like web browsing, accessing applications, transferring data, and most of what you do on the internet.
- No Eavesdropping Allowed:
- It ensures that nobody can secretly listen in on your online conversations or steal your information as it travels between your computer and the server.
- Used Everywhere Online:
- TLS is used to secure web browsers, servers, VPNs, database connections, and more. It’s like a guardian for various online activities.
TLS has two main parts:
- Handshake Protocol:
- Think of it as a friendly introduction before the serious conversation starts. The client (your device) and the server authenticate each other and agree on how to keep the conversation secret.
- Record Protocol:
- This is the actual secure conversation. It makes sure that the data you send and receive is wrapped in a protective layer, like putting your message in a secure envelope before sending it.