SSL Certificate
SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates are digital certificates that verify the identity of a website and establish a secure connection between a user’s web browser and the website’s server. This secure connection ensures that data transmitted between the two parties is encrypted, protecting it from eavesdropping and tampering. SSL certificates enable websites to use HTTPS, which is more secure than HTTP. SSL-secured websites are marked with a lock icon in the browser or a green address bar for Extended Validation SSL-secured websites. The URL of an SSL-secured website will also start with “https” instead of “http.”
Types of SSL Certificates
1. Single Domain SSL Certificate
A single domain certificate will secure a primary domain and a single subdomain, hostname, IP address, or mail server. This type of digital certificate is available in DV, OV, and EV validation options, each requiring different validation processes.
2. Multi-Domain SSL Certificate
Multi-Domain SSL certificates allow a single certificate to secure multiple domains, including subdomains of a single main domain name or entirely different domain names.
3. WildCard SSL Certificate
A wildcard SSL certificate is a single SSL/TLS certificate that can secure a domain and all of its subdomains. The certificate uses an asterisk (*) in the domain name field to indicate that it can secure multiple domains. For example, a wildcard SSL certificate for *.example.com can secure www.example.com, mail.example.com, store.example.com, and any other subdomain.
Benefits of SSL Certificate
Data Security
Encrypts sensitive information like credit card numbers, login credentials, and personal data.
Regulatory Compliance
Many industries and regulatory bodies require websites to use SSL certificates to protect sensitive customer data.
Avoids security warnings
Most modern browsers warn users about websites without SSL certificates.
Trust and Credibility
Builds trust with visitors by indicating that the website is secure and legitimate.SSL certificates help customers trust a website by showing a green padlock icon and verifying the website’s identity.
Prevents phishing attacks
Extended validation certificates (EV certificates) can help protect against phishing attacks by showing the website owner’s full name in the address bar.
SEO Boost
Search engines like Google may give a slight ranking boost to websites that use HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure), which requires an SSL certificate.