Secure Socket Layer
What Is SSL? & Why use SSL?
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, standard security technology for setting up an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. SSL is an industry standard and used by millions of websites in the protection of their online transaction. It also makes sure that all data passed between the web server and browsers remain private and important. In other words, sensitive information like social security number, credit card number and login credentials transmit securely.
Secure Socket Layer Certificates
When you choose to active SSL on your web server you will be prompted to complete the number of questions about identify of your website and your company. Check your URL If it contains “HTTPS” means it has SSL Certificate.
During your SSL Certificate application process, the certification authority will validate your details and issue an SSL Certificate containing your details and permitting you to utilize SSL. SSL Certificate contains your domain name, your company name, your address, your city, your state and your country.
It also contains the termination date of your SSL Certificate and details of Certification Authority who is responsible for providing the Certificate. Nowadays, all the browsers have the capability to interact with secured web servers using the SSL protocol.
Advantages of Implementing SSL
The main prominent advantage of having SSL is that it encrypts the connection between your between your web server and visitor’s web browser. I will discuss other advantages below.
Improves Customer Trust
From a customer trust point of view, SSL Certificate is essential for those websites who are providing online transaction system. A user can easily identify that the data they send will be secured. SSL also prevents content injection such as an ISP or Hotspot placing extra cookies or ads onto a website.
Improve Search Engine Ranking
Like many people, you may have the same question How SSL improves Search Engine Ranking. In 2014, Google made some changes in their algorithm in order to give support to HTTPS enabled websites. In the article, they clearly noted that “They are starting to use HTTPS as a ranking signal.”
Encrypts Sensitive Information
SSL Certificate helps to protect your sensitive information such as bank account details, passwords and logins. All the information is encrypted before it submitted. So hackers will not pilfer your significant data. In other words, information becomes unreadable to everyone except for the server you are sending the information.
Affirms Your Identity
Identify verification is one of the vital aspect as far as web security is concerned. As I said earlier, to install an SSL certificate you must go through validation process set by Certification Authority. Depending on the type of certificate, the Certificate Authority verifies the identity of you and your organization. Your website will get trust indicators once you prove your identity.
To encapsulate it, now we all know that HTTP is a clear indicator of the secured website and no one can track your personal information. It will prove your business authenticity and boost your search engine rankings. Also, assure your visitors that website is genuine and safe to make an online transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an SSL certificate?
Problems:
Google will flag all the unencrypted website soon. Therefore, get SSL certificate your website soon.
Solution:
1. Host with a dedicated IP address
2. Buy a certificate
3. Activate the certificate
4. Install the certificate
5. Update your site to use HTTPS
How does SSL make my web site more trustworthy?
Problems:
Building a trustworthy website consists of two components 1) reputation and 2) security. So, imagine what problems arise if a user doesn’t find your website.
Solution:
SSL certificate contains verified information about the website. SSL is creating a better experience for both website managers and site users. It’s the highest standard of verification and provides the most visible assurance to users.
Why does my website need an SSL Certificate?
Problems:
Without having SSL certificate there are plenty of problems arise. One of the common problems is customer will not do any online transaction through your website. In fact, they will not trust your website.
Solution:
SSL certificate you assure them that your website is authentic. In other words, SSL web server certificates provide assurance of your website’s identity and security. It provides encryption for employees and on-site users. If you cannot risk losing a single user for lack of trust, choose SSL Certificate.
How do visitors know if a website is using SSL..?
Problems:
If a user finds a website is not using SSL Certificate than they will not trust on that website. Therefore, SSL Certificate is essential for any website.
Solution:
1) The beginning of the URL or web address changes from http:// to https://
2) A padlock on the browser window changes from open to closed
3) The address bar will turn green and display the name of the website owner when connecting to a website protected by an Extended Validation SSL certificate.
Why do you ask for documentation when I apply for a certificate?
Problems:
No one can apply for SSL certificate without authenticating documents as they are essential to validate your business.
Solution:
Submitting documents will help to validate your organization. Before we proceed, we will contact the registering authority to confirm the details of the document.
Your Company must be validated in two ways
1) You must show that you have the right to use the domain name that you are trying to secure
2) You must show that the company you are registering is a legally and lawfully-formed organization.