Transport Layer Security (TLS)

Transport Layer Security, or TLS, is a cryptographic protocol designed to secure data transmission across IP networks. It protects transmitted information against unauthorised interception through encryption and enables the detection of data manipulation. TLS can also authenticate communication partners using digital certificates. At the beginning of a connection, the TLS handshake negotiates supported cryptographic parameters and establishes keys for protected communication. TLS is widely used with HTTPS, email services, APIs and numerous other network services. The protocol is the successor to the obsolete Secure Sockets Layer, or SSL. Modern and supported TLS versions are required for current IT systems because older versions have known security weaknesses and should no longer be used.