SSL Handshake vs TLS Handshake
Reading time: 5–6 minutes
This is a fantastic follow-up because thousands of people still use the terms interchangeably.
Structure
Introduction
If you've ever searched for SSL handshake, you've probably also come across the term TLS handshake.
This raises an obvious question:
Are they different?
The short answer is:
Not really.
Modern websites no longer use SSL.
They use TLS.
However, the phrase SSL handshake remains the industry term that millions of people continue to search for.
What Was SSL?
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) was introduced during the 1990s to protect data travelling across the internet.
It allowed browsers and web servers to establish encrypted connections before sensitive information was exchanged.
SSL transformed online banking, eCommerce, and secure communications.
However...
Technology evolved.
Why SSL Was Replaced
Over time, researchers discovered weaknesses in older SSL protocols.
As cyberattacks became more sophisticated, SSL could no longer provide the level of protection required for modern internet traffic.
To address these weaknesses, TLS (Transport Layer Security) was introduced.
Today:
SSL 2.0 — Obsolete
SSL 3.0 — Obsolete
TLS 1.2 — Widely used
TLS 1.3 — Current industry standard
What Is TLS?
Transport Layer Security (TLS) is the modern successor to SSL.
It performs exactly the same job:
Verifies website identity
Creates encrypted connections
Protects sensitive information
Prevents interception
Although the technology has changed, its purpose remains the same.
So Why Does Everyone Still Say SSL?
Because habits are difficult to change.
The entire industry grew up using phrases such as:
SSL Certificate
SSL Handshake
SSL Validation
Even though modern websites actually use TLS.
Today, most certificate vendors including DigiCert still sell products commonly referred to as SSL certificates, despite the underlying protocol being TLS.
Which One Does Your Website Use?
If your website displays HTTPS today, it is almost certainly using TLS rather than SSL.
Modern browsers no longer support old SSL versions because of known security vulnerabilities.
Why It Matters
Understanding the difference helps businesses:
Choose modern security standards.
Maintain browser compatibility.
Improve website security.
Stay compliant with industry requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do websites still use SSL?
No.
Modern websites use TLS.
People simply continue calling it SSL.
Why are SSL certificates still called SSL certificates?
Because the term is widely recognised.
It has become part of everyday internet language.
Is TLS more secure than SSL?
Yes.
TLS includes significant security improvements and is considered the modern standard.
Should I use SSL or TLS?
Always use TLS.
SSL has been deprecated for many years.
Final Thoughts
SSL changed the internet forever.
TLS made it safer.
Although the names are often used interchangeably, modern secure websites rely on TLS to protect users every day.
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