TLS (Transport Layer Security)

Modern protocol that replaced SSL for secure internet communications...

Protocols

What is TLS?

TLS (Transport Layer Security) is the modern cryptographic protocol that replaced SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) to provide secure communication over computer networks. Developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), TLS is the current standard for encrypting data transmitted between web browsers and servers, ensuring privacy, data integrity, and authentication for internet communications.

TLS Protocol Versions

TLS has evolved through several versions, each improving security and performance:

  • TLS 1.0 (1999): Initial TLS version, now deprecated
  • TLS 1.1 (2006): Added protection against cipher block chaining attacks
  • TLS 1.2 (2008): Current widely-adopted version with strong security
  • TLS 1.3 (2018): Latest version with simplified handshake and enhanced security

TLS Security Features

TLS provides comprehensive security through multiple mechanisms including strong encryption algorithms, digital certificates for authentication, message authentication codes for integrity verification, and perfect forward secrecy to protect past communications. Modern TLS implementations automatically negotiate the strongest supported security parameters between client and server.

Where You'll See This Term

This term commonly appears in:

  • SSL certificate details pages
  • Certificate Authority validation processes
  • SSL configuration documentation
  • Security audit reports
  • Certificate management interfaces

Related SSL Terms

Need Help with SSL Certificate Management?

Understanding SSL terminology is just the beginning. Chill SSL helps you monitor and manage your SSL certificates to prevent expiration and security issues.