GnuTLS
GnuTLS is a free and open-source software library that implements the SSL, TLS, and DTLS protocols to provide secure communication over computer networks. It offers a robust API for applications to handle encryption, authentication, and certificate management, supporting various cryptographic algorithms and standards. The library is designed to be portable and is widely used in Unix-like systems, including Linux distributions.
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. 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. Use cases include implementing HTTPS in C-based applications, securing data transmission in embedded systems, and managing digital certificates in enterprise software.