Cybersecurity
TLS Certificate
Definition
A TLS (or SSL) certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates a website's identity and enables an encrypted connection. It is a data file hosted in a website's origin server that binds a cryptographic key to an organization’s details.
Why It Matters
TLS certificates are what make HTTPS possible. They allow your browser to verify that it is talking to the correct server and to establish an encrypted channel for communication.
Contextual Example
When you connect to a secure website, your browser receives the site's TLS certificate. The browser checks that the certificate was issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) and that it is valid for the domain you are visiting. If everything checks out, it establishes a secure connection.
Common Misunderstandings
- SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is the predecessor to TLS (Transport Layer Security), but the term "SSL certificate" is still commonly used.
- Certificates have an expiration date and must be renewed periodically.