SSL/TLS
Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security
A mechanism that encrypts internet communications to securely send and receive data
In Simple Terms
SSL/TLS is a system that protects the communication channels used to exchange data over the internet. For example, when you enter your password or credit card number while shopping online, this system prevents your data from being intercepted or tampered with in transit.
Behind the Name
SSL/TLS stands for Secure Sockets Layer and Transport Layer Security. 'Secure' means protected, 'Sockets' refers to the endpoints where connections meet, 'Layer' is a level within a system, 'Transport' means carrying data from one place to another, and 'Security' means protection from threats. The names reflect the core idea: wrapping communications in a secure layer to keep them safe.
Take a Closer Look!
SSL/TLS is a security mechanism for safely exchanging data over the internet.
Most websites you visit every day use this system to protect their communications.
Without it, data sent over the internet is vulnerable — someone with malicious intent could intercept and read it, or even alter its contents.
That's why SSL/TLS does more than just encrypt data: it also verifies that the server you're connecting to is genuine, and detects whether data has been tampered with along the way, protecting the entire communication channel.
You can tell whether a website uses this system by checking if the URL in your web browser starts with "https://", or if a padlock icon appears in the address bar.
SSL was the original standard, and TLS was later established as its successor with stronger security.
TLS is what's actually in use today, but because the term 'SSL' had long been widely known, the combined term 'SSL/TLS' — or simply 'SSL' — is still commonly used.
It's a critically important system that protects the communications carrying your passwords and personal information.