What does SSL stand for in network security?

Prepare for the Navy Officer Candidate School Cyber Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

In network security, SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It is a standard technology used to establish an encrypted link between a server and a client, typically a web server and a browser. This encryption ensures that any data transferred between the two remains private and integral, meaning that it cannot be intercepted or tampered with by third parties during transmission.

SSL operates by using a combination of public key and symmetric key encryption methods. When a browser attempts to connect to a server using SSL, the server sends a digital certificate that contains its public key. The browser verifies this certificate, and once verified, a secure connection is established that allows for encrypted communication.

SSL is particularly crucial for protecting sensitive information such as credit card details, login credentials, and personal data when transmitted over the internet. While SSL has been replaced by TLS (Transport Layer Security) in many applications, the term SSL is still widely used to refer to the technology that provides encrypted connections, showcasing its importance in maintaining secure online communications.

The other options, while related to security concepts, do not accurately represent the widely accepted term used in the context of encrypted communications.

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