An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates website identity an encrypted connection. This global standard security technology enables encrypted communication between a web browser and a web server. By having this certificate, it communicates to your client the web service has demonstrated ownership of the domain. Whilst also providing a level of assurance that personal information such as credit card numbers, bank information, names, and addresses are prevented from being stolen by hackers. This creates further trust with uses by verifying that websites used to track finances and make online purchases are secure and legitimate.

An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) Certificate means that at the start of your domain name, you’ll see https:// (note the ‘s’, which stands for secure) and a padlock symbol. This secures and encrypts any data your website processes; for example, if a customer sends an enquiry contact form or purchases something from your store.

All websites should have an SSL, because Google warns people visiting sites without SSL that their personal information may be stolen. Having an SSL is also great for your SEO as it is now part of Google’s search ranking algorithm: Google has publicly mentioned that if two identical websites appeared in Google, one with an SSL, one without. The one with the SSL will gain a slight ranking boost to outweigh the other.

What Does SSL Stand for?

Entering bank card numbers through an ecommerce website is something we all commonly do. This is where an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) comes into play. Using an SSL certificate on websites, requires users to submit personal information or banking details.

How do SSL certificates work?

SSL works by ensuring that any data transferred between users and websites, or between two systems, remains impossible to read. By using encryption algorithm, SSL certificates scramble the data in transit over the connection, preventing hackers from reading it.

How Will My Visitors know I have an SSL certificate on my website?

When an SSL certificate is added to your site, your visitors will be able to identify this in the below ways:

  • There will be a padlock to the left-hand side of the URL
  • The URL prefix will be “https” instead of “http”
  • Check to find the trust seal
  • If an EV SSL certificate is issued, a green address bar will show.

Are All SSL Certificates the same?

There are many different types and variations of SSL certificates available. Certain SSL variations suit businesses with a single domain vs those who have multiple domains vs a single domain and several subdomains. Below are just a few examples of variable SSL certificate types:

Single
The single SSL certificate secures one fully qualified domain name or subdomain name

Wildcard
Secures the main domain and an unlimited number of sub-domains under the main domain.

Extended Validation
Provides the highest level of trust and are the industry standard for business websites.

Multi-Domain
Allows a single certificate to secure multiple domains. Including sub-domains of a single main domain name or entirely different domain names.

We hope that this blog has been useful in allowing you to get a better understanding of what is an SSL certificate.
As more consumers continue to shop online, cyber risks continue to evolve. Hence why it is even more important to ensure your website is secure with an SSL certificate. Help keep customers personal information safe while browsing and shopping online.

CFM Group, are pleased to provide all their customers with a FREE SSL Certificate as standard when designing a brand new website. So if you are looking for further information on our current website design options or require further information on SSL certificates. Feel free to get in contact with us today!

 

CFM Group Digital Marketing Agency

CFM GROUP has over 8 years of experience in the Digital Marketing Industry. We are proud to have more reviews than any other local company in our industry, assuring our customers they are in good hands. Every single website we create is bespoke as no single client is the same. Getting to know your business and your exact needs are integral to producing a beautiful website.  That not only looks professional, it sells your services or products to your target audience effectively.

We’d love to hear your view so do not hesitate to contact us, subscribe to this blog for free, or click here to arrange a FREE Consultancy meeting. Keep up to date with the latest content by following our Social profiles on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.