What is it?
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a security standard used to keep web sites secure. SSL protects privacy, and ensures the reliability of sensitive information traveling over the Internet. You will find SSL is used in online banking sites, Internet retailers, and many government web sites. The use of SSL increases the reputability of your web site.

How does it work?
1) The Client requests a secure SSL session from the server.

2) The server sends its public key and a certificate to the client to be authenticated.

3) Upon validation of the server's certificate, the client creates a one-time session key using the public key sent by the server.

4) Using its private key, the server decrypts the session key created and sent by the client and establishes a secure connection. At this point the SSL connection is established and the lock appears at the bottom of the browser.

What is related?
Certificates, Databases