SSL vs TLS
SSL is the older name people still use for website certificates. TLS is the modern protocol used by HTTPS connections.
Updated 2026-08-08The practical difference
Old SSL protocol versions are obsolete. Modern browsers and servers negotiate TLS versions and cipher suites to protect HTTP traffic.
The phrase SSL certificate remains common because it is familiar, but the certificate is used in a TLS handshake.
What to verify
A certificate check can confirm names, issuer and expiration. A live TLS scan is needed to confirm enabled protocol versions and cipher configuration.
Related HTTPS headers
Headers such as Strict-Transport-Security can tell browsers to prefer HTTPS for future visits, but they should be enabled only after HTTPS is stable.
Quick answers
Should I say SSL or TLS?
TLS is technically correct for modern HTTPS. SSL certificate is still widely understood in product names and documentation.