SSL, or Secure Sockets Layer, is a security protocol that is used to establish an encrypted connection between a web server and a client (e.g. a web browser). The purpose of SSL is to secure the transmission of sensitive data, such as credit card information or login credentials, between the server and the client.

One way that SSL works is by using a process called “SSL Handshake.” When a client connects to a server, the server sends a copy of its SSL Certificate to the client. The client then verifies the certificate and, if it is valid, sends a message back to the server to start the SSL encryption process.

The SSL Certificate contains information about the server and the organization that owns it, including the domain name, the organization’s name, and the certificate issuer. It also includes a public key, which is used to encrypt data that is transmitted between the server and the client.

Once the SSL Handshake is complete, all data transmitted between the server and the client is encrypted using the SSL protocol. This ensures that the data cannot be intercepted or tampered with by third parties.

SSL is commonly used on websites that handle sensitive information, such as online stores or financial institutions. It is also used to secure other types of online communication, such as email and instant messaging.

To ensure that your website is secure, it is important to use SSL. One way to do this is by installing an SSL Certificate on your server. There are different types of SSL Certificates, including Domain Validated (DV), Organization Validated (OV), and Extended Validation (EV) Certificates. EV Certificates provide the highest level of security, as they require the most thorough verification process.

In addition to using SSL, it is also important to keep your website and its components (e.g. plugins, themes) up to date to ensure that it is protected from potential vulnerabilities.

In summary, SSL is a security protocol that is used to establish an encrypted connection between a web server and a client. It is important to use SSL to secure sensitive data and to protect your website from potential vulnerabilities.