> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wiki.songer.pro/interviewing/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wiki.songer.pro/interviewing/security-domains-and-technical-aptitude/cryptographic-protections/tls/how-does-tls-work.md).

# How does TLS work?

TLS works by establishing a secure, encrypted connection between two parties. When a client connects to a server, the server authenticates itself using a digital certificate and then creates a secure channel using symmetric encryption algorithms. The client and server then exchange data over the secure channel, which is encrypted and decrypted using the same encryption keys.