Fundamentals · Medium · Free
What is an SSL/TLS certificate chain? Role of CA?
FresherFundamentalsComputer Networks
TLS certificate chain
Server presents cert signed by intermediate CA, chained to trusted root in browser/OS store. Client verifies hostname, validity, signature during handshake.
- CA vouches for public key ownership.
- Let's Encrypt automates free certs for HTTPS.
- Misconfigured chain → browser warnings.
Distinguish encryption (TLS) from authentication (cert + JWT at app layer).