Monitoring and Compliance

Continuous monitoring ensures SSL/TLS configurations remain secure and functional. Certificate monitoring tracks expiration dates, configuration changes, and chain validity. Real-time alerts enable rapid response to issues before they impact users. Integration with incident management systems ensures appropriate escalation and tracking.

Vulnerability scanning identifies weaknesses in SSL/TLS configurations. Regular scans using tools like SSL Labs, sslyze, or testssl.sh reveal configuration drift and new vulnerabilities. Automated scanning integrates into deployment pipelines, preventing insecure configurations from reaching production. Historical scan data helps track security posture improvements over time.

Compliance requirements often mandate specific SSL/TLS configurations. PCI DSS requires strong cryptography for payment card data transmission. HIPAA includes encryption requirements for protected health information. Government standards like FIPS 140-2 specify approved algorithms and implementations. Understanding applicable requirements ensures configurations meet both security and compliance needs.

Documentation of SSL/TLS configurations supports both operations and compliance. Configuration standards should specify approved protocols, cipher suites, and certificate types. Implementation guides help ensure consistent deployments across teams and platforms. Change logs track configuration modifications and their justifications. This documentation proves valuable during audits and incident investigations.