Can a Web client not supporting SSL still connect to a secure server?

Can a Web client not supporting SSL still connect to a secure server?

How is a client without SSL able to connect to a secured server?

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Generally speaking, a client can't do this. If the server only supports Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) communication, clients that do not support SSL will not be able to connect. However, in some cases, servers allow both secured and non-secured communications, so the client that does not support SSL may still be able to connect.

SSL is now widely used and should always be employed when exchanging any type of sensitive information. All modern Web browsers contain built-in SSL code and can handle a number of common cryptographic algorithms. If you're referring to a Web server, you'll have a hard time finding a Web client that doesn't support SSL.

More information:

  • Learn about the benefits of SSL VPNs.
  • Michael Cobb reviews which Internet protocols use SSL.
  • This was first published in May 2007