What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that ensures secure communication between a web server and a browser by encrypting data transmitted between them. In this article, we will discuss the different types of SSL certificates, the benefits of having an SSL certificate, and how to get one for your website. It will boost the website security.
Why do I need an SSL Certificate?
An SSL Certificate is essential for website security and privacy as it encrypts data transmitted between a web server and a browser. It also helps improve your search engine ranking and enhances the website authority, credibility and trustworthiness.
How does an SSL Certificate work?
An SSL Certificate works by encrypting data transmitted between a web server and a browser, ensuring secure communication. It does this by using a public key and a private key to encrypt and decrypt data.
How do I know if a website has an SSL Certificate?
For the website, you can check SSL Certificate by looking for the padlock icon in the browser address bar or by checking the URL, which should start with “https://” instead of “http://”.
Types of SSL Certificates
Domain Validation (DV) SSL Certificate
A DV SSL certificate is the most basic and cheapest type of SSL certificate. It verifies that the domain name of the website matches the records of the domain registrar.
Organization Validation (OV) SSL Certificate
An OV SSL certificate provides a higher level of authentication by verifying the domain ownership and the identity of the organization.
Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificate
An EV SSL certificate provides the highest level of security by verifying the legal and physical existence of the organization in addition to domain ownership and identity.
Wildcard SSL Certificate
A Wildcard SSL certificate can secure multiple subdomains under a single domain with a single certificate.
Benefits of SSL Certificate
Secure Data Transmission
An SSL certificate ensures that all data transmitted between a web server and a browser is encrypted and secure, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access.
Improved SEO Ranking
Websites with SSL certificates are given a SEO ranking boost by search engines like Google, leading to better visibility and increased traffic.
Enhanced Trust and Credibility
An SSL certificate displays a padlock icon in the browser address bar, indicating to users that the website is secure and trustworthy.
Protection from Phishing Scams
An SSL certificate protects websites from phishing scams by verifying the identity of the website and preventing attackers from impersonating it.
How to purchase an SSL Certificate:
A. Choose a reputable SSL provider: Choose a reputable SSL provider that offers different types of SSL certificates, and has a good reputation for customer service and support.
B. Choose the type of SSL certificate: Choose the type of SSL certificate that best suits your needs and budget.
C. Verify domain ownership and identity: Verify domain ownership and identity by following the validation process provided by the SSL provider.
D. Install the SSL certificate: Install the SSL certificate on your web server by following the instructions provided by the SSL provider. This typically involves generating a Certificate Signing Request (CSR), submitting it to the SSL provider, and then installing the SSL certificate on your web server once it is issued.
E. Update website to use HTTPS: Update your website to use HTTPS instead of HTTP to ensure that all traffic is encrypted and secure. This involves updating all website links, images, and other resources to use the HTTPS protocol instead of HTTP.
Choosing an SSL provider
It is important to choose a reputable and trusted provider that offers a variety of SSL certificates to suit your needs and budget. Some of the top SSL providers in the market include:
- DigiCert: DigiCert is a popular SSL provider that offers a wide range of SSL certificates, including EV SSL, OV SSL, and DV SSL certificates. They are known for their excellent customer support and user-friendly interface.
- Comodo SSL: Comodo SSL is another popular SSL provider that offers affordable SSL certificates with a variety of features, including EV SSL, OV SSL, DV SSL, and wildcard SSL certificates.
- GlobalSign: GlobalSign is a trusted SSL provider that offers a variety of SSL certificates, including EV SSL, OV SSL, and DV SSL certificates. They are known for their high level of security and compliance with industry standards.
- Symantec: Symantec is a well-known SSL provider that offers a variety of SSL certificates, including EV SSL, OV SSL, and DV SSL certificates. They are known for their high level of security and reliability.
- Let’s Encrypt: Let’s Encrypt is a free SSL certificate provider that offers DV SSL certificates. While they don’t offer the same level of features as other providers, they are a great option for those on a tight budget.
When choosing an SSL provider, be sure to compare the features, pricing, and reputation of each provider to find the one that best suits your needs.
Final Thoughts
In summary, an SSL certificate is an important tool for securing your website and ensuring the privacy of your users’ data. By choosing the right type of SSL certificate, you can enhance the credibility and trustworthiness of your website while also improving your search engine ranking. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily buy an SSL certificate and install it for your website and enjoy the many benefits it provides.
