If you are a webmaster, then you might surely have heard the term SSL!
Why is SSL so important?
Before we begin, here’s what should you know.
Secure Sockets Layer is the precursor to transport layer security or TLS. When someone speaks of SSL, they are not talking about secure sockets layers. They are probably referring to the combined SSL and TLS.
The acronym SSL commonly refers to both. They provide security for network communications and are a cryptographic protocol. They are often used on websites. They are most commonly used on websites. However, they can also be found in an email. It is a protocol that allows you to communicate with other people via voice-over I P.
Since its inception, it has been passed many times. There’s always a patch for any major issue. It’s still useful because there isn’t a better solution.
Why is SSL so important? Three main features make SSL so important for websites.
- SSL encrypts sensitive data.
- It gives visitors trust and provides authentication.
- When you visit a site that uses SSL, you will see a padlock at the top. It’s usually green and indicates that the site uses SSL, indicating that it is trusted.
PCI compliance requires that you have the skills to handle credit cards on a website. It’s also a benefit that Google and other providers will increase results for sites using SSL. If you search Google for SSL, you will see sites with SSO higher up in search results. You won’t see sites without SSO, but you will see sites with SSO lower down.
It’s just a little extra benefit that Google and other companies provide.
Now, let’s talk about what is SSL in a nutshell.
What is an SSL certificate?
An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a website and allows for encrypted connections. SSL is a Secure Sockets Layer. This security protocol creates an encrypted connection between a web server and a browser.
Companies and organizations must add SSL certificates to protect online transactions and ensure customer privacy.
SSL protects internet connections and prevents criminals from reading or altering information between systems. SSL is the security protocol that protects the website that you visit.
There have been many versions of the SSL protocol since its conception 25 years ago. Each version has had security problems at one point or another. TLS (Transport Layer Security) was renamed and used today. The initials SSL remained, so the new protocol is often referred to by its old name.
Now, let us shed some light on a handful of the key benefits of SSL certificate usage on a website.
Here we go!
SSL Protects Data
An SSL certificate protects server-client communication. Every bit of encrypted information when SSL is installed is protected. The data is encrypted and can only be accessed by the intended recipient (browser, server), as no other person can access it. SSL is useful when dealing with sensitive data like IDs, passwords, and credit card numbers. The unbreakable encryption technology of SSL certificates turns the data into an indecipherable format, making hackers’ skills obsolete.
SSL Verifies Your Identity
An SSL certificate’s second main task is to authenticate a website. Web security is only as secure as identity verification. The internet is becoming more deceptive; there is no doubt.
In some cases, people have lost thousands of dollars on fake websites. It is where SSL certificates come in.
You must undergo a validation process by an independent third party, called a Certificate Authority. The certificate verifies your identity. They are easy to see, and users will know who they are talking to when they see them.
It is similar to verified Twitter accounts. It is different from a verified Twitter account. You are required to verify your identity on the website. This verification ensures that no imposter can create a fake website pretending it is yours. It is known as Phishing. SSL allows users to drive to your website and protects them from fraud. It also enhances your reputation.
Enhances the Search Engine Ranking of a Website
Google made some changes to its algorithm to give HTTPS-enabled websites an advantage in 2014. Here’s the example of HostCano, where you can see the HTTPS enabled on the top left side with the padlock icon.
These findings have been confirmed by various studies done by SEO professionals around the globe. Who wouldn’t like to be the first Google search result page? Right!
SSL helps you satisfy PCI/DSS requirements
You should be familiar with PCI/DSS requirements if you accept online payments. Your website must comply with PCI requirements to receive online payments. Installing an SSL certificate is one of the 12 requirements the Payment Card Industry (PCI) requirements.
SSL is therefore essential, regardless of whether you want it.
SSL Increases Customer’s Trust
We would have changed the name of SSL (Secure Socket Layer) to TTL (Trust Transmitting Layer) if we had the option. It isn’t, fortunately. However, that doesn’t mean we can’t sing the praises for a TTL certificate — err SSL certificate.
SSL certificates are essential for customer trust. These easy-to-remember signs let users know that their data is protected. They can also see the details of your organization if you have an OV SSL or EV SSL installed. They will be more inclined to do business with you if you are a legitimate entity.
Google made SSL mandatory in 2018
Google will now flag websites that do not have an SSL/TLS certificate installed to ensure safer web surfing. All the most popular browsers worldwide, such as Firefox, Mozilla, and Google Chrome, will warn anyone who violates this rule by displaying a ‘Not secure’ message in the URL bar.
It doesn’t matter what website you have. SSL is required for all websites, including personal blogs and shopping portals. Failure to comply with SSL may cause traffic loss, which website owners would not like to deal with.
Wrapping up
How secure would you feel if your browser told you that a website was “not secured”? Chrome will display this if you don’t have an SSL certificate. Are you sure that you don’t want this? You don’t.
What are you waiting to do? Please take a look at our range of SSL Certificates, which are extremely affordable and will add an incredible layer of protection to your website.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you should read these as well: