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Understanding the Key Differences Between TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3

Understanding the Key Differences Between TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3

The TCP/IP transport protocols are given an additional layer of security by the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol. TLS adds extra security features, like authentication and message tampering detection, and securely sends private data using both symmetric encryption and public key encryption.

TLS lengthens the number of steps required to send data over TCP/IP, which adds to the latency of online communications. However, the security advantages frequently outweigh the additional latency.

TLS encryption is a common practice for most websites and helps shield web applications from data manipulation and eavesdropping. In response to the growing number of security threats and the requirement for encryption on both the client and server ends, the SSL/TLS protocols were created.

TLS is in place to aid in preserving user security and privacy. Without TLS, sensitive data being transferred online, such as credit card numbers, personal information, and login credentials, is susceptible to theft. Unknown third parties could also keep an eye on your emails, web usage, and direct message correspondence.

Lets talk about TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3 now 

TLS 1.2 Vs TLS 1.3

The Transport Layer Security protocol, which is used to encrypt and verify data transfer over the internet, comes in two versions: TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3. The most recent version, TLS 1.3, was launched in August 2018 and includes numerous performance and security enhancements over TLS 1.2. 

TLS 1.3 is thought to be safer than TLS 1.2. Modern, safe cipher suites are used instead of outdated, less secure cryptographic techniques. A more secure protocol is required since TLS 1.2 was weak against attacks like POODLE and BEAST.

TLS : TLS T1.2 Vs TLS 1.3
Fig 1.1- TLS : TLS T1.2 Vs TLS 1.3

The handshake procedure is streamlined using 
TLS 1.3, which lowers the quantity of round trips necessary to establish a connection. As a result, connection setup times are accelerated. There may be delay introduced by TLS 1.2's more complicated handshake procedure, which involves many round trips.

The handshake procedure in TLS 1.3 is quicker and less complicated than in TLS 1.2, which lowers the latency and overhead of creating a secure connection. TLS 1.3 only needs 0 to 3 packets to execute a handshake, but TLS 1.2 needs 5 to 7 packets.

Perfect forward secrecy (PFS) must be implemented, and TLS 1.3 includes more secure cypher suites than TLS 1.2. PFS makes ensuring that the encryption keys used for each session are unique and are not retained or used again, making them resistant to compromise from upcoming assaults.

Static RSA and Diffie-Hellman key exchange, RC4 and CBC mode encryption, MD5 and SHA-1 hash algorithms, and renegotiation extension are some of the insecure or out-of-date features that TLS 1.3 replaces with. This simplifies the protocol implementation and increases the security of TLS 1.3.

If clients have already established a connection with servers, TLS 1.3 includes a feature known as zero round-trip time (0-RTT), which enables clients to transfer data to servers without having to wait for the handshake to be finished. Applications that demand frequent or fleeting connections, such web surfing or instant messaging, may function better as a result.

TLS 1.2 Vs TLS 1.3
Fig 1.2- TLS Comparison

When compared to TLS 1.2, TLS 1.3 delivers a considerable increase in security, speed, and ease of use. Websites and businesses are urged to upgrade to TLS 1.3 in order to improve the security of their connections and take advantage of the protocol's speed improvements.

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