An SSL certificate is a digital certificate that confirms the identity of a website and allows for a secure connection. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) is a security technology that establishes a secure connection between a web server and a web browser.
How does an SSL certificate work?
SSL makes it harder to read data sent between people and websites, or between two systems. It encrypts data in transit to prevent hackers from gaining access to it while it travels across the network. Potentially sensitive data includes names, addresses, credit card numbers, and other financial information.
Why is it important?
These certificates help keep online interactions secret by assuring visitors that the website they’re visiting is legitimate and secure.
An SSL certificate helps to secure information such as:
- Login credentials.
- Credit card transactions or bank account information.
- Personally identifiable information.
- Legal documents and contracts.
- Medical records.
- Proprietary information.