You may be familiar with URLs (Uniform Resource Locators), which are the addresses used to access websites. For instance, Wessex IT’s URL is:
Have you ever noticed the distinction between URLs that start with http:// and those that begin with https://? The dissimilarity lies in the letter S. However, the true meaning behind that extra S might not be immediately apparent.
While S is not an official acronym for security, it does indicate that the website you’re visiting possesses an additional layer of encryption. Consequently, it also implies that the website is safer for utilising and sharing any sensitive information, such as credit card details.
If you’re running a blog, website, or e-commerce store, you should seriously consider what this security and encryption technology can offer you and your site’s visitors. And if you do decide to go for it, you’ll need to invest in something called an SSL certificate (also known as a TLS or SSL/TLS certificate).
What is an SSL Certificate?
A digital certificate that authenticates your website and encrypts information transmitted between computers.
How Does SSL Certificate Work?
SSL technology makes use of a concept known as Public Key Cryptography, which utilises two long strings of random numbers called “keys”. One serves as a private key, while the other is public.
The public key is available in the public domain and can be leveraged to encrypt any data. However, the public key cannot decrypt the data.
This is where the private key comes into play. Only the private key can unlock the message that was encrypted using its public counterpart.
For example, if a user sends you a message through a form on your website, your public key will turn the message into a secret code. Since you (i.e. your web server) are the only one with access to the private key, only you can decipher and read this message. If a hacker tries to steal the message when it’s on its way to the server, all they will get is the secret, cryptographic code, not the actual message.
Why my Business Website Needs an SSL Certificate?
An SSL certificate offers a number of benefits. Among other things, it:
- Keeps data secure. Enhances cybersecurity defenses by leveraging SSL certificates to bolster the protection of customer data, including vital information like names, addresses, email addresses, and credit card details. These certificates shield sensitive data from potential cyber threats posed by malicious actors aiming to exploit it for nefarious purposes, particularly identity theft.
- Fosters customer trust. When visiting your website, customers anticipate a secure environment that safeguards their data. Without an SSL certificate, if they encounter a cautionary pop-up indicating potential risks, their confidence in your business wanes, and they may choose not to proceed further.
- Complies with PCI/DSS obligations. PCI/DSS is a regulatory framework established by the Payment Card Industry Security Standard Council, in collaboration with prominent credit card companies and banks. It applies to businesses that handle cardholder data during the acceptance, storage, and processing of payments. Without an SSL certificate, you might encounter difficulties partnering with a payment processor to facilitate online product sales.
- Verifies your identity. By employing encryption, an SSL certificate not only enhances your brand reputation but also verifies and validates your business’s identity.
- Boosts search engine rankings. Websites equipped with SSL certificates receive favorable treatment from search engines like Google, as they prioritise secure browsing experiences for users. This leads to higher visibility and improved rankings on search engine results pages (SERPs).
As we mentioned earlier, by implementing an SSL certificate, your website undergoes a crucial transformation from HTTP to HTTPS, demonstrating the utilisation of advanced SSL technology. This visible change instills confidence in users, encouraging them to share sensitive information like credit card details without hesitation.
The significance of this trust signal cannot be overstated, as a staggering 85% of global users consider websites lacking an SSL certificate untrustworthy. Furthermore, modern web browsers issue prominent “not secure” warnings for such sites, discouraging visitors from proceeding any further. This, in turn, severely hampers crucial actions like signing up, inquiring about services, or making purchases.
Are all SLL Certificates the Same?
Nope – they aren’t. SSL certificates can be categorised based on two key factors: the number of owned domains and the level of validation needed.
When considering the number of domains or subdomains owned, an SSL certificate can fall into one of the following categories:
- Single: Designed to secure a single fully qualified domain or subdomain.
- Wildcard: Extending protection to a domain name and its numerous subdomains.
- Multi-Domain: Enabling security for multiple domain names.
SSL certificates are an essential requirement for all websites, regardless of whether you engage in online sales or gather valuable customer data. To ensure uninterrupted traffic and a successful business website, obtaining an SSL certificate is imperative. Even if you don’t gather visitor information, having an SSL certificate is crucial to avoid customers encountering a pop-up indicating your website is insecure.
To learn more about securing your website, feel free to contact Wessex IT team, as we can provide website hosting and SSL certification services to keep your business secure and maintain customer trust.
