Network Security Services (NSS) is a set of libraries designed to help developers create cross-platform security-enabled client and server applications. SSL v3, TLS v1.1, and TLS 1.2 are all supported. Its key features are command-line tools, SSL v3 compatibility, and TLS v1.2 support.
Netscape Portable Runtime (NSPR)
Netscape Portable Runtime (NSPR) provides platform-neutral APIs that support secure communications. It is used by the Mozilla browser, numerous Red Hat applications, and Oracle server applications. Its public API describes the general functions, structures, and macros. It also supports the most popular security protocols, including SSL v2 and v3, TLS, PKCS #5 and #7, and XML.
NSPR provides underpinnings for Java virtual machines and functions such as malloc, calloc, and realloc. These functions are implemented in the runtime or shims that call into offerings from host operating systems. The NSPR also supports linking. Netscape Portable Runtime (NSPR) is an example of NSS software.
Network Security Services (NSS)
Consider using the network security services (nss) software if you’re looking for a security-enabled Java application. This open-source library allows you to develop and deploy security-enabled applications across many platforms. It supports SSL v3, TLS, PKCS #5, PKCS #7, S/MIME, and other security standards. The software is free and distributed under the Mozilla Public License v2 (mod spec).
Antivirus software is a critical component of an exemplary network security system. A good antivirus tool can detect and remove spyware and adware and protect your system from phishing attacks. Firewalls are also an essential part of network protection. They are a barrier between your network and the outside world, monitoring network traffic. Without a firewall, you cannot protect your network. Network security services are a must-have for any business.
Command-line utilities
NSS offers command-line utilities for various purposes. For example, pk12util can export a certificate into PKCS#12 format. Then, use OpenSSL pkcs12 to convert the PKCS#12 file into a PEM format. After the export is complete, NSS will create a new certificate in the same format. The resulting certificate will then be available in NSS.
NSS’s command-line utilities often use a simple directory path parameter, usually prefixed with a type modifier. This is necessary because NSS’s default file format is the fragile DBM format. Using the wrong file format could cause your databases to be corrupt. To avoid this, select the proper file format before running any command-line utility. Then, use the NSS command-line utilities to access the NSS database and manage the various components.
Support for SSL v3, TLS v1.1, V1.2
Many browsers and developers are preparing to stop supporting older protocols and move to the latest standards in security. However, these technologies are susceptible to attacks, and the Internet Engineering Task Force is forcing the use of TLS 1.2 as the most secure way to send and receive information over the Internet. Browsers that do not support HTTPS will not be able to connect to sites and mark them as insecure.
SSL v3.0 is an old security protocol that is not very secure. It has several vulnerabilities and is no longer used for secure web connections. In addition, due to the security vulnerability known as the POODLE, the US government has mandated that SSL v3 be blocked for sensitive government communication. As a result, many services have removed SSL v3 support. As a result, your website may not be secure at all.
Support for PKCS #5, PKCS #7, PKCS #11, S/MIME, X.509 v3 certificates
NSS software provides certificate management and validation services. Depending on your requirements, NSS can issue S/MIME, X.509 v3, and PKCS #7 certificates. They can also secure network traffic.
The Network Security Services (NSS) library can be used to develop secure server applications across different platforms. With this software, you can create and deploy SSL, TLS, and PKCS #5 and PKCS #11 certificate-based applications. NSS also includes a PKCS #11 interface to integrate with hardware accelerators and smart cards.
