What is SSL and What Is It For

1. What is SSL

SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It’s a security protocol that encrypts communication between a web browser and the server where your website is hosted. In simple terms, SSL creates a secure connection so that data – like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal information – is transmitted safely.

Today, SSL has become a basic security standard for any website that wants to protect its visitors and build trust.

2. What is SSL for

An SSL certificate ensures three essential aspects of secure communication:

• Confidentiality: Data sent between the user and the server is encrypted.
• Integrity: Information cannot be altered or intercepted during transmission.
• Authenticity: It verifies that the user is connected to the legitimate server and not a fake one.

3. How SSL works

When you access a website with SSL, your browser and the server perform what’s called a “handshake.” This process establishes unique encryption keys that secure all subsequent data exchanges.

From that moment, all information travels securely. The browser shows a padlock icon or the prefix https:// in the address bar, indicating a secure connection.

4. Types of SSL certificates

Not all SSL certificates are the same. Depending on the level of validation, there are different types:

• DV (Domain Validation): Verifies only that the domain is valid. It’s the simplest and quickest to obtain.
• OV (Organization Validation): Verifies both the domain and the organization’s identity.
• EV (Extended Validation): Offers the highest level of trust and shows the company name in the browser’s address bar.

5. Benefits of having SSL on your website

• Better security: Protects your users’ data, passwords, and transactions.
• Improved SEO ranking: Google prioritizes websites using HTTPS.
• Trust and credibility: Users are more likely to engage with secure websites.
• Avoids browser warnings: Browsers display alerts for non-secure websites.
• Legal compliance: SSL is essential for complying with data protection regulations like GDPR.

6. How to check if a website has SSL

It’s very easy to check. Just look at your browser’s address bar – if the website starts with https:// and shows a padlock icon, it’s secure.

If you want to learn more about HTTPS and online security, check this article from Google Developers: Why HTTPS Matters.

7. How to install an SSL certificate

The installation process depends on your hosting provider. Fortunately, most modern web hosts offer free SSL certificates through Let’s Encrypt.

General steps to install SSL:

1. Log into your hosting control panel (such as cPanel or Plesk).
2. Find the “SSL/TLS” or “Security” section.
3. Enable the free SSL certificate or upload your own.
4. Force all traffic to redirect from HTTP to HTTPS.

8. Why SSL matters for SEO

Google considers HTTPS a ranking factor. This means websites with SSL are more likely to appear higher in search results compared to those without it.

Moreover, SSL improves user experience and reduces bounce rates – both critical metrics for SEO and online success.

9. Conclusion

SSL is much more than a technical requirement. It’s a crucial element for protecting your website, building user trust, and improving your SEO performance. If your website doesn’t have SSL yet, now is the time to activate it.

At ALHOSTINGS, we help you set up SSL on your WordPress site quickly and securely. Contact us and make your website safe and trustworthy today.