What is SSL?

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a security protocol that encrypts and decrypts data transmitted over a network connection. The SSL protocol decreases the potential for access by unauthorized users, such as computer hackers. If a hacker is able to eavesdrop on data sent across a network that is not encrypted, they could gain potentially valuable information about you such as your credit card number.

Setting up SSL for the Web server

The SSL protocol requires all Web servers to use certificates when transmitting data over a network connection. When a session is initiated, a Web client requests the server's certificate to authenticate the identity of the server. On Windows Embedded Compact, this certificate must reside in the "My" store.

Once the certificate is added, navigate to the SSL page, select Enable SSL, and then type the certificate's subject into the input field. Once SSL is enabled, clients are allowed access to any virtual directory using an SSL connection. To force a virtual directory to use SSL, open the configuration page and select SSL Required or SSL 128 bit required to enforce stronger encryption.

For more information about installing an SSL certificate, refer to the documentation included with your device.