Strict SSL definition
Strict SSL refers to the strict enforcement of SSL/TLS encryption to ensure that all data transmission occurs over secure connections. When it is enabled, the system enforces the use of SSL/TLS without exceptions. If a client tries to connect to the server over an insecure connection, the server will reject the attempt. In essence, Strict SSL eliminates the possibility of unencrypted or less secure communication.
See also: SSL encryption
Strict SSL uses
- Web browsing. When you visit a website with HTTPS (which uses SSL/TLS), the communication between your browser and the server is encrypted. Strict SSL ensures that all such communication is always secure.
- Secure data transfer. When transmitting sensitive data such as personal information, credit card details, and passwords over the internet, strict SSL ensures that the data is encrypted and cannot be intercepted or read by unauthorized parties.
- Email servers. Email servers use strict SSL to make sure that no one can intercept and read the content of email messages during transmission.
- E-commerce. Online shopping websites use strict SSL to protect customer information and transaction details.
- Online banking. Banks use strict SSL to protect customer accounts and transaction information from interception.
- Cloud services. Many cloud service providers use strict SSL to protect data stored and transferred in the cloud.
Strict SSL purposes
- Prevent eavesdropping. By enforcing encrypted connections, Strict SSL prevents unauthorized parties from eavesdropping on the communication between a client (e.g., a user's browser) and a server (e.g., a website). This protects sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or personal details from being intercepted and misused.
- Maintain data integrity. Strict SSL ensures that the data sent between a client and server cannot be modified without detection during transmission. This helps maintain the integrity of the data and prevents on-path attacks, where an aggressor changes data in transit.
- Authenticate communication parties. One of the key aspects of strict SSL is that it provides a mechanism for the client to verify the identity of the server it's communicating with. This helps to prevent “man-in-the-middle“ attacks where an attacker might pretend to be the server to steal information or spread malicious content.
- Comply with regulations and standards. Many regulations and standards related to data privacy and security require using technologies like SSL to protect data. Strict SSL helps organizations meet these requirements.
