How is the data secured over the air in Merge Replication ?

Dear ppl,

I have a question for you. One of our client has asked us how is the data secured over the air during Replication?

I have read that Merge Replication uses TLS (Transport Layer Security) protocol to secure the data over the air. But I was wondering if it is all done automatically ? Or do we need to install certificates like for SSL.

We have a Windows Mobile 5.0 application using SQL Mobile that runs over 50 devices and they all synchronise with a single Publisher SQL Server 2005 using GPRS connection. We haven't got any SSL certificates installed on the server.

Now how can i make use of TLS in my application to secure my data over the air (using TLS)?

Regards
Nabeel Farid

it's replicated on the same protocols that SQL Server uses when communicating with other SQL Servers. You can enable encryption at the protocol level if you want.|||

thanx for the response Greg.

I didn't exactly understand what you mean. But how can I enable encryption at the protocol level?

Regards

|||

You can do this in SQL Server Configuration Manager. Search books online for "encryption protocols", you should find a topic named "Encrypting Connections to SQL Server".

|||You should also look at the Mobile Telecommunications carrier supplying the over the air connection and see what security options they have available. For instance, if there is a dedicated connection like a VPN or whether your are using a public network, the security options will differ.