A protocol developed by Netscape for transmitting private documents via the internet. This can be embedded into the browser. It uses public key encryption and digital certificate.

Both Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer support SSL, and many websites use the protocol to obtain confidential user information like credit card numbers.

The SSL security protocol provides data encryption, server authentication, message integrity, and optional client authentication for a TCP/IP (internet) connection.

URLs that require an SSL connection start{Content} with https: instead of http,and you will find a small lock symbol on the right hand corner of the browser which shows that the connection is SSL (Secure Socket Layer).

Abbrevation : SSL- Secure Socket Layer.