Explanation:
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) and TLS (Transport Layer Security) are cryptographic protocols used to establish secure communication over networks, particularly the internet. TLS is an improved version of SSL and is widely adopted today.

These protocols ensure data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity by encrypting the communication between a client and a server. SSL/TLS is the backbone of secure web traffic, allowing websites to use HTTPS instead of HTTP.

The handshake process in SSL/TLS involves authentication, key exchange, and session key generation, enabling both parties to communicate securely.

Additional Information:
TLS provides backward compatibility with SSL, although SSL versions are deprecated due to vulnerabilities. TLS is essential for secure financial transactions, email communication, and VPN connections.

Certificate Authorities (CAs) issue digital certificates to authenticate websites during the handshake. Without SSL/TLS, sensitive user data such as login credentials and payment information would be vulnerable to interception.

Formal Definition:
SSL/TLS are cryptographic protocols that provide secure communication over computer networks by encrypting data and ensuring its authenticity, integrity, and confidentiality.