In simple terms, an SSL certificate provides a secure connection between your web site’s server and the user browsing your website. It prevents hackers from impersonating you or stealing your visitor’s information.
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It is a protocol for establishing safe, secure, and authentic links between devices or browsers. A trusted communication ensures that all the data passed between two devices stays private.
If the URL of a website begins with “https” instead of “http,” then the site is secured using an SSL certificate.
Another way to recognize if a website has an SSL certificate, therefore a secure connection, is by looking to see if a padlock icon is displayed to the left of the website URL. Clicking on the padlock icon at the top of your browser will tell you whether your connection is secure or not secure.
HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. It is a protocol that allows web browsers to send and receive requests to and from a web hosting server.
HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. It is a newer and more secure version of HTTP that uses TLS/SSL encryption.
Many people believe that SSL certificates are only beneficial for websites that provide extra sensitive data like online payment, banking, or credit card transactions. While SSL certificates are crucial for such websites, the benefits are no longer limited to these website types.
Encryption: When a user enters data on a website, the information moves through several gateways before reaching the destination. Without a secure connection, this data can easily be subject to malicious attacks.
Authentication: An SSL-trusted connection ensures that the client is receiving data from the correct server protecting the data against malicious attacks.
Data Integrity: During data transport, SSL includes Message Authentication Code (MAC) to ensure zero data loss.
