title: How does SSL actually encrypt information?
body: <p>I just recently set up SSL on my website's account creation page.  I'm looking to expand this further to my entire site.</p>
  
  <p>I had a question, though.  How does SSL encryption actually work and protect data in transit?  Furthermore, what methods are normally available to hackers to intercept data sent in plain-text over HTTP?  I know there is "sniffing", but that is always the only method given, there is never any elaboration.  Is there a way to examine the data being sent over HTTP and HTTPS? To compare and contrast?</p>