In this tech-dependent age, the most important and sensitive data are stored and available online. So, this data must be reliable and secure. And here comes SSL Encryption.

SSL Encryption Definition

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption operates as a security protocol that provides encrypted communication that links web server systems to browser platforms. Through encryption, SSL protects both passwords and credit card details, along with personal information, from hackers who try to intercept or modify data.

Also Read: WHAT IS SSL, TLS & HTTPS? [Explanation to Difference]

How SSL Work?

Data Encryption

Once the connection is established, to protect all the exchanged data, all the data is encrypted and transformed into unrecognizable text. The encrypted data becomes readable only to the recipient who established the connection either through the browser or server.

Handshake Process

The Browser together with the Server establish an encrypted connection when you visit a website that use SSL (HTTPS). The server displays SSL certificates that act as a proof of identity. And thus, the encryption procedure receives approval from both the server side and the client side.

Secure Communication

A hacker who intercepts the data receives only encrypted information that remains useless because it lacks the decryption key.

Difference in Encryption Strength

Encryption strength is determined by key size, as it directly impacts both the level of security and the efficiency of computation. The two primary SSL encryption levels are 128-bit and 256-bit.

128-bit SSL Encryption

It is a security protocol that secures the data transmitted between a user's browser and a web server using a 128-bit Key. The "128-bit" in 128-bit SSL encryption refers to the key length used in the encryption algorithm. A 128-bit key means that there are 2¹²⁸ (≈ 3.4 × 10³⁸) possible key combinations.

Thus, Sensitive Data, including passwords, along with payment and personal information, stays confidential through the protection of 128-bit SSL Encryption.

How 128-Bit SSL Encryption Works?

A user connection through HTTPS triggers a secure handshake between the browser and server using an SSL certificate.

A 128-bit encryption key produces the encoded data by scrambling the information.

After encryption the data is transmitted to the designated recipient who operates the decryption key that recovers the original readable content.

A strength of 128-bit SSL encryption lies in the vast number of possible keys that reach 3.4 × 10³⁸ which hackers would need to guess correctly before they achieve any data access.

Security of 128-bit SSL Encryption

Number of Possible Keys: 2¹²⁸ (340 undecillion possible combinations)

A 128-bit encryption key requires such powerful supercomputers that cracking it would need billions of years to break through.

This security method provides both highly resistant unauthorized entry and maintained data reliability.

Benefits of 128-Bit SSL Encryption

Because of its powerful encryption level, the system becomes virtually impenetrable to unauthorized data decryption attempts.

The encryption method supports fast performance because it requires less computational power than 256-bit encryption, which results in quick data transmission and processing speeds.

Many systems support it because 128-bit SSL encryption operates across online banking platforms and e-commerce stores, and secure web browsing functionality.

Where is 128-bit SSL Encryption used?

• Banking and Payment Processing - Protects financial transactions from cyber threats.
• E-commerce Websites - Ensures secure checkout processes.
• Email and Messaging Services - Encrypts sensitive communication.
• Cloud Storage Services - Make sure no unauthorized access can reach the stored data.

Problems of 128-bit SSL Encryption

Vulnerability

Despite providing secure encryption at present the upcoming progress in computing technology, particularly quantum computing, can weaken its current strength.

A quantum computer with enough ability can accomplish the breaking of 128-bit encryption through Shor's algorithm.

Security

The use of 256-bit encryption creates a security that is exponentially stronger than lower encryption systems against breaking attempts.

Businesses that manage extremely confidential data, such as those in government services and military operations, along with blockchain operations use 256-bit encryption.

Outdated Security Standards

Technology shifts in various sectors and regulatory sectors demonstrate a preference for 256-bit encryption because it guarantees sustained security.

The latest TLS version emphasizes high encryption that diminishes the effectiveness of using 128-bit encryption for essential applications.

Weaknesses in SSL/TLS Implementation

Companies using SSL 3.0 or TLS 1.0 versions create security vulnerabilities for their networks.

Legacy systems currently allow the use of weak cipher suites, including RC4, MD5, and SHA-1, which represent potential safety risks.

Susceptibility to Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) Attacks

The failure to properly validate certificates, combined with expired SSL certificates, allows cyber attackers to intercept protected data.

Read the full article - https://certera.com/blog/difference-between-128-bit-and-256-bit-ssl-encryption/