SSL/TLS Handshake Demonstration

Author: Anish Nath | Updated: January 23, 2025 | Expert Verified
Scenarios
TLS 1.2 (RSA)

RSA key exchange

4 RTT
TLS 1.2 (ECDHE)

ECDHE key exchange

4 RTT, FS
TLS 1.3

Modern TLS

1-2 RTT, FS
Resumption

Session resumption

1 RTT
mTLS

Mutual TLS

Client cert
Sequence Diagram

Select a handshake scenario to begin

Handshake Steps

Steps will appear here

About This Tool

This interactive demonstration visualizes the SSL/TLS handshake process used to establish secure connections. Watch as client and server exchange messages, negotiate cipher suites, and establish encrypted communication channels.

What you'll learn:

  • How TLS 1.2 and TLS 1.3 establish secure connections
  • Differences between RSA and ECDHE key exchange
  • Session resumption mechanisms
  • Mutual TLS (mTLS) authentication
  • Certificate exchange and validation

Understanding SSL/TLS Handshakes

What is a Handshake?

The SSL/TLS handshake is a process where the client and server establish a secure connection by:

  • Negotiating the TLS version and cipher suite
  • Authenticating the server (and optionally the client)
  • Exchanging cryptographic keys
  • Establishing encrypted communication
Key Exchange Methods
  • RSA: Server's public key encrypts pre-master secret
  • ECDHE: Ephemeral keys provide forward secrecy
  • DHE: Classic Diffie-Hellman with forward secrecy

Forward Secrecy: Even if the server's private key is compromised, past sessions remain secure.

About the Author

Anish Nath

Security Engineer & Cryptography Expert

Experienced security professional specializing in cryptographic protocols, TLS/SSL implementations, and network security. This tool is designed to help developers, students, and security professionals understand the complex process of establishing secure connections.

Follow on X (Twitter) Visit 8gwifi.org

Expert Verified
Content reviewed by security professionals