SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It’s a digital certificate to authenticate a website’s identity, enabling an encrypted connection. An SSL certificate is vital to allowing companies to offer secure online transactions and keeping their customer information private and safe.
When an SSL is in operation, you’ll see a padlock icon next to the URL. This certificate keeps internet connections secure, preventing hackers from viewing and changing the information transferred between systems. Whilst the type of SSL protocol may be different or perhaps a TLS (Transport Layer Security), it is almost always referred to as an SSL.
How does an SSL work?
The SSL certificate ensures any data transferred between websites and users or between any two systems are protected and impossible to read. Using encryption algorithms, this protocol scrambles data in transit to stop hackers from reading the code as it travels. This process is vitally important to keep sensitive information like names, addresses or financial details private. You may see this exchange called an ‘SSL handshake’ and, whilst it sounds like a long and complex process, it is completed within milliseconds.
To view the details of an SSL certificate, all you need to do is click on the padlock symbol in the address bar. You’ll find:
- The domain name the certificate is registered to
- Who it was issued to
- The issuing Certificate Authority
- Issue and expiry date
- Any attached subdomains
- The public key
Why do I need an SSL certificate?
Aside from protecting customer information, obtaining an SSL certificate also ensures that the website cannot be falsified. The SSL keeps online interactions private, with the padlock symbol offering users quick assurance that your website is safe and responsible for protecting their information.
More particularly for businesses, an SSL certificate is necessary to achieve an HTTPS web address; this is a secure form of HTTP, showing that the website has its traffic encrypted by an SSL.
Different types of SSL offer varying levels of validation. The most common are:
- EV SSL – Extended Validation Certificates
- OV SSL – Organised Validated Certificates
- DV SSL – Domain Validated Certificates
- MDC – Multi-Domain SSL Certificates
- UCC – Unified Communications Certificates.
How do I get an SSL certificate?
SSL certificates are easily obtained from any Certificate Authority (CA). The cost can range from free to hundreds depending on the quality of the certificate.
To purchase your SSL, follow these simple steps:
- Make preparations by getting your server set up and updating your WHOIS record to ensure they match the information you submit to the Certificate Authority.
- Generate a CSR (Certificate Signing Request) on your server. If you have a website hosting company, they can help you with this.
- Submit this to the Certificates Authority to validate your domain and company details.
- Once the process is complete, you will need to install the certificate they provide you.
The time this takes to reach you varies from authority to authority.
Will my SSL certificate expire?
SSL certificates do expire. Most SSLs expire every year, requiring an annual renewal. Of course, expiry lengths vary from certificate to certificate, but they will never last longer than 27 months. The SSL expires in order to re-verify important information; once your certificate expires, your site is unsecured until the renewal is complete.
So there you have the basic need-to-knows of an SSL certificate. If you are with a website hosting company, they will be able to help you with this. Perhaps you are looking for a new website hosting company? Get in touch with the team at Essex Interactive Ltd today! Email info@essexinteractive.co.uk.