What is SSL?
In summary: SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security protocol used on the internet that creates an encrypted connection between the server where a website is located and the browser the visitor connects to, ensuring that data is securely exchanged between them and preventing it from being intercepted by malicious users.
General
The transmission of information over the Internet is done using TCP/IP (Transfer Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) protocols. SSL works after TCP/IP and before high-level applications, such as HTTP (web browsing), FTP (file transfer) and IMAP (email). SSL receives the data from the higher-layer applications, encrypts it and then transmits it over the internet to the device that requested it.
Mode of operation
The SSL protocol uses a combination of public key and symmetric key encryption. Public key encryption offers better authentication techniques however symmetric key encryption is much faster and more efficient.
