What is the main difference between SSL and TLS?

The main difference between SSL and TLS lies in the fact that TLS (Transport Layer Security) is indeed a newer and more secure version of the original SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocols. SSL was developed first to provide secure communication over the internet, but it has several vulnerabilities that have been addressed in TLS. As a result, TLS is not only more secure than SSL but also provides better performance and additional security features.

While SSL is still sometimes referenced in discussions about web security because of its historical importance, TLS is the standard protocol used today for establishing secure connections. The implementation of TLS helps safeguard data integrity and privacy, thereby protecting sensitive information during transmission.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for anyone working with internet security, as using the most up-to-date and secure protocols is vital for ensuring the safety of data exchanged online.