Also known as Transport Layer Security proxy, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) proxy is very helpful in offering data integrity, as well as security for those who frequently use servers to connect to other computer networks or to the Internet. With the use of this proxy server, people can use several computer applications or programs including electronic mail messaging, instant messaging, and web browsing, that can help them do their tasks easier. Aside from these, computer users can also perform computer activities like Internet faxing and voice-over-Internet-Protocol. To make sure that clients maximize the use of this computer program, it is necessary that they learn the special features and advantages of SSL proxy over other servers.
Background of the Creation of This Computer Application
Netscape created version 1.0 of proxy server in 1993. After two years, the computer company developed version 2.0 of SSL proxy. Since the second version has several limitations, Netscape launched version 3.0 of the computer program in 1995. Since then, a lot of popular business establishments in the world like American Express and MasterCard promotes the use of this application in commerce.
Description of the Computer Program
SSL proxy is very popular to clients who maintain computer networks because it helps them access electronic resources and web pages. At the same time, it helps them maintain their privacy and security since it was designed to limit malicious activities like tampering of information, eavesdropping, message forgery. One of the features of this proxy that promotes security of clients is mutual authentication. With this feature, computer users cannot use the server unless they have a party certification. In this way, people can prevent outsiders access the proxy.
Phases Involved in the Authentication Process
In order to use this particular proxy server, computer users should pass through the three phases involved in the authentication process of SSL proxy. First, it is important that clients establish peer negotiation, which is very signification for the program’s algorithm support. Meanwhile, the second phase involves authentication of the user, as well as key exchange between the server and the client. Finally, to successfully use this computer application, the server will authenticate the key exchanges and symmetric cipher encryption.
Security Measures
In terms of security, clients have nothing to worry since SSL proxy uses different measures. First, the computer program has a public key that can authenticate or certify digital signature used by clients. Second, this application has a validity period, which means that clients can no longer use the proxy after this period. Third, this proxy server has the capacity to record applications used with this program.
Open Source Software and the Proxy Server
Since most computer users find the proxy server very helpful, it is featured in some open source software. Some of these software that promotes the proxy are OpenSSL, GnuTLS, and NSS. In addition, Microsoft Windows also implement the computer program in the Secure Channel offering. When it comes to the implementation of this computer application in web browsing, users can find Opera 10 as suitable for SSL 1.2. About Author: Peter Garant has written many articles about New Proxies for a recently launched website about Internet Proxies. Visit An Extensive Look at SSL Proxy.
