Definition
OCSP stapling is a protocol that an internet server employs to determine the revocation status of a security certificate.
Moreover, it improves the efficiency and privacy of the online certificate status protocol (OCSP) by facilitating the server’s transmission of certificate status data to the client, regardless of the TLS handshake.
This eliminates the need for the client to independently request this information from the certificate authority (CA).
How Does OCSP Stapling Work
- The website server contacts CA on the backend to obtain the latest revocation status.
- The CA informs the server of the revocation status by sending timestamped and signed data, which the server caches.
- The client browser sends a connection request to the server.
- The server responds by stapling or annexing the cached data in its revocation status.
- The user browser connects to the websites upon validation of the server certificate.
- If the server certificate has been revoked, the client browser will flag it as invalid.
Examples of OCSP Stapling
- Web browsing: When browsing, OCSP stapling enables the web browser to validate the SSL/TLS certificate of a website promptly and efficiently. This ensures it doesn’t get revoked.
- E-commerce transaction: Online businesses use OCSP stapling to secure online transactions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of OCSP Stapling
Pros
- Enhanced efficiency: OCSP stapling improves the certificate validation process, ensuring quicker and more secure connections.
- Improved privacy: It eliminates the need for clients to connect directly with CA, thus keeping browsing habits more private.
- Server control: Reduces overdependence on CA since the server has absolute control over the status of security certificate information.
Cons
- Complexities in implementation: The OCSP implementation process is exhausting and requires servers to monitor certificate status updates regularly.
- Support limitations: Some servers don’t support OCSP stapling.
Using OCSP Stapling
- Check for the implementation details on your server’s documentation. Configuring OCSP stapling varies depending on the server.
- Avoid a self-signed certificate, as OCSP stapling depends on a trusted CA to offer revocation details.