mTLS
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Cybersecurity
| Stands for | Mutual TLS |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
mTLS stands for Mutual TLS, a cybersecurity abbreviation.
A form of TLS in which both the client and the server present certificates and verify each other, rather than only the server proving its identity. It secures traffic between microservices, zero-trust networks and high-security APIs such as open banking.
Example: The service mesh enforces mTLS, so only workloads with valid certificates can call the payments service.
Usage notes
Service meshes such as Istio and Linkerd issue and rotate workload certificates automatically, which makes mTLS practical at scale. Distributing client certificates to many users or devices is the main operational burden. Also called two-way TLS.
Related abbreviations
More cybersecurity abbreviations
- MD5 – Message-Digest Algorithm 5
- MDM – Mobile device management
- MDR – Managed detection and response
- MFA – Multi-factor authentication
- MITM – Man-in-the-middle
- MSSP – Managed security service provider
- NAC – Network access control
- NDR – Network detection and response
- NGFW – Next-generation firewall
- NTLM – NT LAN Manager
- NVD – National Vulnerability Database
- OAuth – Open Authorization