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EEC algorithms usher in new era of SSL certificates

For anyone looking to secure the transmission of data over their website, implementing an SSL certificate has always been an effective solution. Their encryption methods have kept innumerable websites secure for years, but as computing power has increased, so too has the vulnerability of a basic SSL certificate. Concerns have risen among the cybersecurity industry that the standard 1024-bit certificates could potentially be out muscled by hackers backed with supreme processing capabilities.

Cybersecurity experts, thankfully, have offered a few solutions to this issue. One option is to simply push back on hacker computing power with 2048-bit certificates. In fact, the National Institute of Standards and Technology recommends that 2048-bit certificates become the industry standard. While this would certainly make websites more resistant to hacking attempts, that extra muscle would come with its own share of issues. Network World's Alan Shimel notes that the additional power of 2048-bit certificates could lead to more strain being placed on servers. Also, if the trend continued and SSL certificates periodically required resource draining upgrades, the problem could keep perpetuating. However, other industry experts argue that, if properly configured, the higher bit certificates would minimally impact performance and the extra security afforded would be worth any drop in network speed.

Another solution for addressing performance concerns would be utilizing the new Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) algorithm. EEC certificates are not only harder to crack than the 2048 varieties, their security is actually on par with current 3072-bit formats. In addition, EEC certificates are just 256 bits, meaning their implementation would reduce the strain on server CPUs. The creators of the new algorithm have designed it for widespread and immediate implementation as well as continuing functionality as network technology advances.

Secure website traffic depends of solid encryption protocols. Protect your data by getting your SSL certificate today.

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