Okay, let's break down this diagram of the HTTPS process step-by-step from the perspective of a security and network software engineer.
HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. It's essentially the standard HTTP protocol layered on top of a secure channel created using the TLS (Transport Layer Security) or its predecessor SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) protocol. The diagram provides a good, albeit simplified, overview of establishing this secure channel and using it.
Here's a detailed explanation of each stage shown:
## 1. TCP Handshake
- Purpose: Before any secure communication (TLS/SSL) can happen, a reliable network connection needs to be established between the client (e.g., your browser) and the server (the website's server). HTTPS uses TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) for this reliability.
- Steps: