What does SSL stand for?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), a cryptographic protocol that provides security and data integrity for communications over open public networks such as the Internet.
How do I check my browser version?
From the menu bar of the browser, click on "Help" and then "About Internet Explorer." The browser version will be displayed. In the example below, you'll see that this Internet Explorer version is 6.0.
How do I check my browser to make sure it is using 128-bit encryption?
Internet Explorer:
Look under the Help menu and select "About Internet Explorer." This will display both the browser's version and cipher strength (level of encryption). In the example below, the browser is set at a cipher strength of 128-bit encryption.
Firefox:
Look under the Help menu and select "About Mozilla Firefox." After the platform information (Windows or Macintosh) there will be either a "U" or an "I," as shown below. A "U" indicates that you are using the U.S. version, with sufficient (128-bit) encryption. An "I" indicates you are using the international version, which has a lower encryption level (40-bit), and should therefore upgrade.
Netscape/Communicator:
Select the "HELP" menu and choose "ABOUT COMMUNICATOR" or "ABOUT NAVIGATOR." A window should open with information about your Web browser including current version and cipher strength. If your Netscape browser is older than version 7.x or is less than 128-bit cipher strength, you will need to upgrade your version of Netscape.
How do I enable my browser to use SSL?
Internet Explorer:
Open IE. From the menu bar of the browser, click on "Tools," then "Internet Options," then the "Advanced" tab and scroll to the bottom of the list. The SSL and TLS options (all versions) should be checked.
Firefox:
Open Firefox. From the menu bar of the browser click on "Tools," then "Options," then "Advanced" and choose the Encryption tab. The SSL 3.0 and TLS 1.0 options should be checked.
Netscape/Communicator:
Open Netscape/Communicator. From the menu bar of the browser click on "Tools," then "Security Info" and then choose Navigator and check "Enable SSL" (Secure Sockets Layer) v3.