An SSL certificate, or Secure Sockets Layer certificate, is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a website and encrypts data transmitted between the website and its visitors. It ensures that sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card details, and personal data remains secure from eavesdropping and tampering.
The primary purpose of an SSL certificate is to establish a secure connection between a web server (hosting the website) and a web browser (used by visitors). It encrypts data transmitted over the internet, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring that information remains private and integral during transmission.
To obtain an SSL certificate, website owners typically purchase one from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) or obtain it for free from certain providers. The process involves generating a Certificate Signing Request (CSR), submitting it to the CA along with identity verification documents, and then installing the issued SSL certificate on the web server. Many web hosting providers also offer simplified processes to acquire and install SSL certificates.
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It is a protocol for establishing secure and encrypted links between a web server and a web browser in order to ensure the security of data transmitted over the internet. SSL has been succeeded by Transport Layer Security (TLS), which is an updated and more secure version of the protocol.
Anyone who operates a website where users input sensitive information, such as login credentials, payment details, or personal information, needs an SSL certificate. This includes e-commerce sites, online banking platforms, social media networks, and any website that requires users to log in. SSL certificates are essential for protecting user privacy, preventing data breaches, and building trust with visitors by displaying a secure connection indicator in web browsers.