Understanding How SSL Works

Have you ever wondered what that little padlock symbol next to a website’s URL means? It’s a sign that the website is using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), also known as TLS (Transport Layer Security). This is a security protocol that verifies the connection between a website and its users, as well as encrypts the data that passes through that connection.

This combination of security measures makes it possible to safely use sensitive data online. In this guide, we’ll show you everything there is to know about SSL/TLS certificates and how they make your website safe and secure.

A Look at the History of Data Transfer Security

When the internet was in its infancy, data used to travel from server to server through HTTP protocols.

As the ‘90s rolled in, the era of ecommerce sparked interest in buying and selling online, but the lack of secure lines for transmitting sensitive data was a huge issue. Sending your credit card details over regular HTTP was like shouting your secrets out at the top of your lungs – not the best strategy for a secure transaction.

Back in 1994, Netscape made their debut in the world of HTTPS/SSL technology. While they weren’t the pioneers of digital certificates (credit there goes to the brilliant minds behind public key cryptography), Netscape took a step further by incorporating these certificates into the SSL protocol. Taher Elgamal, known as the “father of SSL,” played a crucial part in shaping this SSL concept.

In 1995, SSL 2.0 came into the picture, patching security issues from the initial release. It was followed by the stronger SSL 3.0 in 1996, which tackled all known vulnerabilities. This paved the way for HTTPS (‘S’ stands for secure), becoming the ultimate solution for websites involved in secure data transfer. Data flows encrypted through this protocol, making it incomprehensible.

Before this data shift begins, the computer initiates a handshake with the correct server, presented through an SSL certificate. The server offers the certificate, the browser gives it a virtual nod, and voila – the data transfer starts.

Can you even imagine a cyber world without this? It’s hard to picture a life without secure ecommerce, hassle-free online medical consultations, and safe tax filing. SSL certificates have protected our data and built the very foundation of our online world.

Evolving From SSL to TLS

The evolution from SSL to TLS marks a significant stride in data transfer security. Transport Layer Security, or TLS, is the contemporary upgrade to the SSL protocol, addressing several vulnerabilities associated with older SSL versions.

Previously, SSL faced challenges. It relied on the MD5 hashing function, which is now considered insecure. This made SSL susceptible to Man-in-the-Middle attacks, allowing hackers to simulate the end of a session and continue engaging without users’ awareness.

TLS and SSL refer to the same protocol, with TLS denoting the latest version featuring enhanced technologies. The name change from SSL to TLS was largely influenced by political considerations, as SSL was initially developed by Netscape. To avoid one company monopolizing credit, the industry opted for the term TLS. While TLS and SSL are used interchangeably today, technically, TLS is the official name for the certificate.

The most recent and secure iteration is TLS 1.3. There are three types of certificates catering to different validation levels:

1. Extended Validation (EV): Verifies domain name usage and conducts a thorough vetting of the organization to confirm its legitimacy.
2. Organization Validation (OV): Confirms domain name usage and involves a partial vetting of the organization.
3. Domain Validation (DV): Only validates the right to use the domain name.

Looking ahead, TLS version 1.4 is anticipated to introduce post-quantum encryption, providing security against both quantum and classic computers.

Developers of TLS 1.4 also grapple with addressing cybersecurity challenges related to the Internet of Things (IoT). Smart devices, from cars to refrigerators and baby monitors, now integrate internet connectivity into intimate aspects of users’ lives. Ensuring robust cybersecurity is crucial for these IoT devices to keep pace with the evolving security of your WordPress website.

TLS not only reflects a historical shift but also points towards a future where encryption adapts to emerging threats and technology.

TLS and SSL Work Together to Keep Users Safe

First things first, what sets HTTPS apart from HTTP? Well, HTTPS isn’t just about sharing data; it’s about sharing data securely. By combining the well-known HTTP with encryption and verification, HTTPS guarantees that the information being shared is not only jumbled up but also reaches its intended destination without any prying eyes:

1. Client says hello: When the user, or client, clicks a link or types in a web address, their browser sends a request to the server and initiates the handshake process by sending a “Hello.” This is a short message that includes information about their SSL/TLS versions, the ciphers they can use to encrypt and decrypt messages, and a 32-byte random number known as the Client Random.
2. The server responds: The server replies with its own “hello,” confirming the chosen cipher and providing the site’s SSL/TLS certificate along with its own 32-byte random number known as the Server Random.
3. The client verifies the server’s private key: To do this, the client encrypts a 48-byte string of random numbers using the public key the server provided. This string of numbers is called the pre-master secret (named so because of its role in creating the master secret down the line). The client sends this pre-master secret to the server.
4. Key matching: Once both parties have all the data they need to do so (meaning the Client Random, the Server Random, and the pre-master secret) they use that information and the cipher chosen in step 2 to reveal the master secret. If both parties arrive at the same master secret, they will then use it to create identical, or symmetrical, keys. This will become the encryption key for the connection once the session is established.
5. Testing the match: The client sends a message to the server indicating that they are ready to establish a connection. Then the client sends over a hashed and encrypted message to confirm that the server has arrived at the same key. The server will then send the same information to the client in return.
6. Pass or fail: If the process has gone as intended and the server’s key matches the clients, they will both be able to decrypt and verify the messages. At this point, the TLS handshake is complete. If the decrypted messages do not match, the process fails and a secure connection will not be established.

When you see that padlock, you know you’re in safe hands.🔒

SSL Safeguards Your Online Sessions

SSL strengthens your digital interactions. Regular HTTP connections leave you vulnerable in several ways – hackers may be able to access your connection without permission, and they’d be able to see the data passed between your website and your users in plain text. However, when you switch to HTTPS, the information becomes an incomprehensible mess that the hacker cannot access without the encryption key.

This is essential for any website handling sensitive information, such as medical, tax, or legal services. SSL makes it possible for you to send your doctor a question online or file your taxes in an instant. Without it, transferring this kind of information online would be too risky to be worth it. Lastly, ecommerce as an industry relies heavily on SSL. Online shopping hinges on the promise that customers can safely share their credit cards online.

The consequences of neglecting user privacy are severe. At a minimum, you’re likely to deal with reputational damage when users try to access your site and get a message saying it’s not secure and they should not proceed. In more serious situations, you could face fines and other legal repercussions.

SSL Provides Credibility to Your SEO Efforts

Search engines favor websites that prioritize security. Google’s Senior Search Analyst John Mueller emphasizes that while SSL doesn’t directly boost SEO ranks, it’s a factor that should not be ignored. In fact, not employing SSL can lead to SEO issues, because it degrades the trust of the website with search engines.

Beyond SEO rankings, SSL/TLS elevates website credibility, trustworthiness, and user satisfaction.

When a non-secured website gets flagged in search results, the repercussions are huge. The aftermath involves a tarnished reputation, crumbling user trust, and a noticeable dip in website traffic. In the competitive world of SEO, SSL builds a secure, credible, and SEO-friendly online presence.

Pressable is Your Ally in SSL Security

At Pressable, we understand the connection between website security and SEO. As your go-to WordPress hosting provider, trusted by thousands, we provide free SSL certificates courtesy of Let’s Encrypt. These protect your users’ data and enhance your website’s SEO performance.

Our dedicated 24/7 support team is always ready to assist if there are any issues with your SSL certificate. With Pressable, you can keep your site secure and SEO-friendly around the clock.

Don’t leave your website’s security to chance. Explore Pressable’s pricing plans and start securing your website today!

Varsha Adusumilli

A dedicated WordPress user since 2007, Varsha has witnessed the platform’s growth and transformations firsthand. With a Masters’ in Computer Science and experience as a web designer/developer, Varsha possesses a strong foundation in various web development technologies. Her entrepreneurial spirit and freelance background further honed her ability to think creatively and deliver results. This deep understanding, coupled with her technical skills and customer-centric approach, makes her a great part of the Pressable Team. Her genuine desire to help others and her knack for finding solutions make her a customer success rockstar.