SSL Certificate

SSL certificate checks are a network monitoring method specifically designed to assess the validity and security of SSL/TLS certificates used in secure web services. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) are cryptographic protocols that provide secure communication between a client and a server over the internet. Websites and web services use SSL/TLS certificates to ensure the authenticity, confidentiality, and integrity of data transmitted between users and servers.

Here's how SSL certificate checks work:

• Certificate Retrieval: The SSL certificate check begins by connecting to the target web service using HTTPS and retrieving the SSL/TLS certificate presented by the server.

• Hostname Verification: The check confirms that the hostname (domain name) in the SSL/TLS certificate matches the target web service's domain. This step ensures that the certificate has been issued explicitly for the web service being monitored and prevents man-in-the-middle attacks.

• Subject Alternative Names (SANs): The check verifies that the certificate is valid for all listed domain names in the Subject Alternative Names (SANs) field.

• Issuer: The check ensures that the SSL/TLS certificate has been issued by a trusted Certificate Authority.

• Validity Period: The check verifies that the certificate is within its validity period by comparing the current date and time with the certificate's "Not Before" and "Not After" timestamps.

• Certificate Signature: The check ensures that the certificate's digital signature is valid and has been signed by a trusted CA. This validation process confirms the certificate's authenticity and integrity.

In summary, SSL certificate checks play a crucial role in monitoring the security and validity of SSL/TLS certificates used by web services. These checks help maintain user trust, data security, and ensure the proper functioning of secure web services.