Key takeaways:
- SSL certificates are no longer just add-ons but an important part of website security.
- Not all SSL certificates are equal. Some types are more appropriate for different profiles and needs.
- You should always exercise caution when accessing and inputting information into websites; confirming if they have SSL certificates helps ensure your security.
With all the sensitive information we share daily online, securing personal accounts, passwords, and websites should be a top priority. You wouldn’t leave your front door open, would you?
In the context of websites, you don’t want to give cyber-criminals any chances. That’s where SSL certificates come in, as they safeguard your website and visitors’ data like sturdy digital locks.
What are SSL certificates?
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) is a protocol for establishing authenticated and encrypted links between networked computers. When people ask, “What is website SSL?”, they’re usually referring to the SSL certificate. It’s a digital badge installed on a website that confirms its identity and protects any data shared with it. It’s a cryptographic key that encrypts data to protect an organization’s sensitive details.
SSL was once the standard for secure online communication. While its successor Transport Layer Security (TLS) is now the industry standard, many people still call digital certificates ‘SSL certificates.’
When installed on a web server, they activate the padlock icon and https protocol, securing connections between the server and your browser. SSL certificates also encrypt data sent back and forth, keeping sensitive information like credit card numbers and login details safe from hackers.
Moreover, SSL certificates also act as a digital seal of approval for your website. By getting your certificate from a trusted authority, you’re proving to other internet users that your site is verified and safe—the padlock icon in the browser indicates the SSL/TLS certificate verification process.
How do SSL certificates work?
SSL works by using public and private keys to encrypt data shared between your site and your visitors.
When someone visits your site, their browser begins an SSL/TLS handshake with your server. During this process, your server sends its SSL certificate. The browser checks that certificate against a trusted certificate authority (CA). If the certificate is valid, a secure connection is established. From there, all data transmitted between the browser and your site is encrypted.
To activate SSL on your website, you’ll need an SSL/TLS certificate. This is a small file installed on your web host or server.
It combines an encryption key (the ‘public key’) with identifying information about your website, such as its domain name, business name, and address.
But the work behind SSL certificates lies in encryption and the SSL/TLS handshake. Here’s a simplified overview of how SSL certificates work.
- Encryption. SSL certificates encrypt data using a combination of public and private keys. The public key is freely available, while the private key is kept secret on the web server. Data encrypted with the public key can only be decrypted with the corresponding private key.
- SSL/TLS handshake. When visitors access a website with an SSL certificate, their browser initiates an SSL handshake with the web server. During this process, the server presents its SSL certificate, which the browser verifies with a trusted certificate authority. Once the certificate is validated, a secure session is established, and all data transmitted between the browser and server are encrypted using session keys.
Why do you need SSL certificates?
SSL/TLS certificates are now essential for website security, since they offer many benefits aside from encryption and secure online transactions. The following are some of the benefits you can get from these certificates.
- Safeguarding sensitive data. SSL/TLS certificates encrypt sensitive information like credit card numbers, login credentials, and personal details. Encrypting makes sure that data remains confidential and protected from prying eyes.
- Building trust and credibility. The green padlock icon and the “https://” in the address bar indicate a secure connection, encouraging users to trust your site and potentially share their information.
- Boosting search engine rankings. Search engines like Google prioritize websites with SSL/TLS certificates, giving them a slight edge in search results.
- Ensuring regulatory compliance. In many industries, such as healthcare and finance, SSL/TLS certificates are mandatory for data security regulations. Implementing SSL helps you avoid penalties and legal complications.
- Protecting online identity. SSL certificates authenticate your website’s identity, ensuring visitors interact with a legitimate site rather than a malicious imitation. This helps prevent phishing attacks and protects your brand reputation.
- Enhancing customer experience. A secure website provides visitors with a seamless and worry-free experience. They can browse, shop, and interact with your site, knowing their information is safe.
For these reasons, it’s considered an investment in your website’s security, credibility, and overall success.
Types of SSL certificates
There are various types of SSL certificates, each offering different levels of validation and security.
Domain validated (DV) certificates
DV certificates require only basic verification and are easily obtained. They are best for personal websites or blogs where sensitive data isn’t shared.
Additionally, the certificate details don’t display any organization information. They only provide the browser’s padlock icon and “https://,” assuring basic encryption.
Organization validated (OV) certificates
OV certificates require more extensive verification, including confirming the organization’s identity and legitimacy. They are best for businesses and organizations that want to establish trust with their visitors. The organization’s name is displayed in the certificate details, adding a layer of transparency.
Extended validation (EV) certificates
These offer the highest level of validation and are considered the gold standard of SSL certificates. Hence, a certificate authority must rigorously vet them.
Websites with EV certificates display the organization’s name in the browser’s address bar or certificate details, giving visitors an extra layer of trust. Unlike in the past, most modern browsers don’t show the green address bar anymore, but the organization’s added visibility and details help establish the site’s credibility.
These certificates are ideal for eCommerce sites, financial institutions, and any organization handling sensitive customer data. These certificates instill maximum confidence and trust, potentially increasing conversions and customer loyalty.
In addition to these standard certificates, there are also specialized certificates available, such as:
- Wildcard SSL certificates. These are perfect for businesses with multiple subdomains (like blog.yoursite.com or shop.yoursite.com). Instead of purchasing individual certificates for each, a wildcard SSL certificate covers them under one umbrella. These types of certificates can simplify management and potentially save costs.
- Multi-domain SSL certificates. Also known as Subject Alternative Name (SAN) certificates, these are a great fit if you manage several distinct domains. A single multi-domain SSL certificate can secure all of them, streamline the process, and offer a cost-effective solution compared to buying separate certificates for each domain.
How to get an SSL certificate for your website
Obtaining an SSL certificate is a straightforward process. Follow this guide to obtain an SSL certificate, keeping in mind that processes may vary per provider.
- Choose the right certificate. There are different types of SSL certificates, each with varying levels of validation and features. Consider your website’s needs and the level of trust you want to convey to your visitors. Network Solutions offers a range of options to suit your specific requirements.
- Generate a CSR. A certificate signing request (CSR) is a block of encoded text generated on your web server. It contains information about your organization and the domain name required for the certificate issuance process. You can get this from your web hosting provider.
- Submit your CSR to your SSL provider. Select a trusted certificate authority (CA) or SSL provider and submit your CSR. They’ll validate the information first and issue your SSL certificate.
- Install your certificate. Once issued, you must install the certificate on your web server. This process can vary depending on your hosting provider and server configuration. Network Solutions provides expert support to guide you through this step, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free installation.
- Configure your website. After installation, configure your website to use HTTPS. This involves updating your website’s settings and ensuring all internal links point to the secure HTTPS version.
Where do SSL certificates come from?
Certificates come from ‘certificate authorities’ (CAs), specialized companies responsible for creating and issuing certificates. Running a CA is complex, involving both the creation of certificates and the verification of the information they contain.
CAs are audited annually to ensure trust and must adhere to strict security standards. Only then will their certificates be recognized and accepted by web browsers.
How to tell if a website has SSL
Determining a secure website is easier than you might think. Here are a few quick ways to check if a website has SSL protection.
- Look for the padlock. The most obvious sign is a padlock icon in the browser’s address bar. This indicates that the website has an SSL/TLS certificate, and your connection is encrypted.
- Check the URL. Secure websites use “https://” instead of “http://” at the beginning of their URL. The “s” stands for “secure.”
- Look for visual cues. Older browsers used to show a green address bar for strong SSL certificates. Now, most of them display different visual cues, such as the padlock icon and “https://” to indicate an SSL certificate. Click the padlock to see certificate details, including the verified organization for higher-level certificates. This helps you determine if a website is SSL protected.
If you don’t see any of these signs, proceed with caution. Avoid entering sensitive information on websites that lack SSL/TLS protection.
What if my SSL certificate expires?
An expired SSL certificate will negatively affect your website’s security and reputation. Some consequences of an expired SSL include the following.
- Loss of trust
- Negative impact on SEO
- Interrupted functionality
- Security vulnerabilities
When an SSL certificate expires, web browsers will warn visitors regarding the website’s lack of security. These warnings can range from simple notifications to full-page error messages that prevent users from proceeding. To keep things running smoothly, make sure to renew your certificate before it lapses.
Secure your website with an SSL certificate
An SSL certificate is important for websites, since it provides site security and enhances your website’s credibility. By encrypting data and verifying your website’s identity, an SSL certificate protects you and your visitors from cyberattacks.
Navigating SSL certificates can be a bit overwhelming, but Network Solutions can help you find your way through. We offer various SSL certificate options fit to your needs, along with expert guidance to ensure your website is properly secured. Secure your website with an SSL certificate today!
Frequently asked questions
An SSL certificate encrypts data transmitted between a website and its visitors, protecting sensitive information from hackers. It also authenticates the website’s identity, ensuring visitors connect with a verified site.
You’ll need an SSL certificate to protect your website and your visitors’ data. It also helps boost your website’s credibility and search engine rankings.
You can purchase one from a reputable SSL provider, like Network Solutions. You must generate a CSR on your web server and submit it to the CA for validation. Once issued, install the certificate on your server.
Yes, it’s possible to get SSL certificates for free. For example, you can get one included when you avail Network Solutions’ website-building services. Standard renewal fees typically apply after your first year.
