Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS)

Audio/voice and other forms of data are very crucial to keep secure in communication applications. Without proper infrastructure, like using DTLS to secure voice data, there can be user privacy breaches and unauthorized access to user information.

What is DTLS?

DTLS is a protocol for encrypting client and server applications to improve the privacy of datagram-based communication. It provides security and encryption similar to TLS but is built as an extension of User Datagram Protocol (UDP). It does not guarantee the order of information delivery in datagram-based communication. However, it has low latency, can easily prevent information from interfering, and provides a more secure environment for WebRTC-based communications such as live streaming and video conferencing applications.

How does DTLS Work?

The diagram above illustrates the encryption process of DTLS. The client starts a request and sends it to the server. The message initialization contains information about the client, such as capabilities and security settings. The server encodes the data received into a compressed format and encrypts it. The server then sends the encrypted message to the client. Visit the MDN web docs to learn more about this protocol.

Benefits of DTLS

• Data privacy: DTLS helps secure data exchange and communication between client-server technologies without being manipulated or forged.
• Ensures reliable transport layers: DTLS has a mechanism to handle problems in the network and caters to unreliable transport layers.
• Data encryption: It provides security for information transfer over the internet.

Real-world Examples and Applications of DTLS

• Tunnel formation: Cisco uses DTLS to create a tunnel between private and public applications using its Intercloud Fabric service.
• Chrome, Opera, and Firefox use DTLS for encryption of data.

Frequently Asked Questions