First defined in 1999, TLS, also known as Transport Layer Security, is a type of cryptographic protocol which provides secure communications over computer networks. The TLS protocol is the successor to SSL and uses asymmetric encryption methods to perform authentication, and then exchange a symmetric key to encrypt the data that passes over the network.

Transport Layer Security protocols are used in everyday networking operations like secure web browsing, e-mail, instant messaging, and VOIP.

How do I know if I’m using TLS in a browser?

Secure websites using TLS can be identified by looking for a lock next to the URL or a URL starting with “https” instead of “http.”

Communication, Computer acronyms, Protocol, Security terms, SSL

  • How to protect yourself while on the Internet.
  • Computer security help and support.