OpenSSL vs GnuTLS

Developers should learn and use OpenSSL when building or maintaining systems that require secure data transmission, such as HTTPS web servers, VPNs, or encrypted messaging applications meets developers should learn and use gnutls when building applications that require secure network communications, such as web servers, email clients, or iot devices, especially in environments where licensing restrictions of alternatives like openssl are a concern. Here's our take.

OpenSSL

Nice Pick

Developers should learn and use OpenSSL when building or maintaining systems that require secure data transmission, such as HTTPS web servers, VPNs, or encrypted messaging applications

Pros

• It is essential for implementing SSL/TLS certificates, generating cryptographic keys, and performing security audits in environments like Linux servers, where it is often the default tool for handling cryptographic operations
• Related to: tls-ssl, cryptography

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

GnuTLS

Developers should learn and use GnuTLS when building applications that require secure network communications, such as web servers, email clients, or IoT devices, especially in environments where licensing restrictions of alternatives like OpenSSL are a concern

Pros

• It is particularly valuable for projects that prioritize open-source compliance, as it is part of the GNU Project and uses the LGPL license, making it suitable for both free and proprietary software
• Related to: openssl, tls-protocol

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. OpenSSL is a tool while GnuTLS is a library. We picked OpenSSL based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

OpenSSL wins

Based on overall popularity. OpenSSL is more widely used, but GnuTLS excels in its own space.