Certificates
This chapter provides some background to certificates.
Standards and Organizations
A great many standards have been created covering SSL and PKI, and as is often the way with new areas some of these standards are rivals or at least alternatives. This chapter briefly introduces the standards referred to in the coming chapters, and the organizations behind these standards.
Some Common Algorithms: Overview
This topic names some of the best known encryption algorithms, and describes how to choose what algorithm to use.
Definitions for OpenSSL
This topic briefly explains some terms that, while they are not part of SSL, often appear in discussions and documentation of SSL, especially of OpenSSL.
Attacks
This topic explains some of the best known strategies for breaking a code, and what features SSL has that you can use to protect yourself from these attacks.
Designing a PKI
This chapter advises on points to remember, ideas to consider, and pitfalls to avoid if you are designing a PKI for your organization. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but is intended to be helpful in suggesting points to consider.