SSL, or TLS, encrypts online communications between a client and a server. Learn how SSL works, what HTTPS is, and how to get a free SSL certificate.

The SSL handshake is an asymmetric cryptography which allows the browser to verify the web server, get the public key and establish a secure connection before the beginning of the actual data transfer.

An SSL certificate is a digital certificate issued by a Certificate Authority (CA) that authenticates a website owner's identity and enables SSL/TLS encryption.

SSL/TLS uses certificates to establish an encrypted link between a server and a client. This allows sensitive information like credit card details to be transmitted securely over the internet.

When a user tries to connect to a server, the server sends them its TLS/SSL certificate. The user then verifies the server's certificate using CA certificates that are present on the user's device to establish …

Jul 23, 2025 · When you visit a website with SSL enabled, your browser requests a secure connection from the web server. The server responds by sending its public key certificate to authenticate itself. …

May 13, 2025 · In everyday terms, SSL/TLS ensures that: The website you're visiting is legitimate (authentication). Your data is encrypted so nobody can read it (encryption). The data is not altered …