SSL Certificates
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are digital certificates that authenticate a website's identity and enable an encrypted connection between a web server and a browser. They are essential for implementing HTTPS, ensuring data transmitted between users and websites remains private and secure. Modern SSL certificates are often referred to as TLS certificates, as TLS (Transport Layer Security) has largely replaced the older SSL protocol.
Developers should learn about SSL certificates when building or maintaining web applications that handle sensitive data, such as login credentials, payment information, or personal details. They are crucial for compliance with security standards (e.g., GDPR, PCI DSS), improving SEO rankings (as search engines favor HTTPS sites), and preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. Use cases include e-commerce platforms, banking websites, and any service requiring user authentication.