What is an SSL Certificate?
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a protocol that allows for a secure online connection between an internet user and a website’s server. SSL creates an encrypted connection while preventing issues like data tampering, message forgery, or eavesdropping.
When a browser or server attempts to connect your web server, it will request that the web server identify itself by sending a copy of an SSL certificate. Once the browser/server verifies the SSL certificate, it’ll send a message to the web server, and the SSL encrypted session begins. Any information shared between the browser/server and the web server will then be encrypted and secured.
Why Use SSL?
SSL encryption is especially important if your website has an online store component. SSL protects information such as credit card numbers, addresses, phone numbers, usernames, and passwords. Even if your website doesn’t regularly have sensitive information entered on it, SSL is still beneficial to your server’s security and function. SSL allows you to intercept data going to and from your web server–you’re guaranteed integrity of the data.
SSL offers:
Installing an SSL Certificate
There are a few different ways to install an SSL certificate on your website.
1.) Obtain a free certificate (SiteGround, WPEngine)
2.) Obtain an SSL certificate and its installation for a small fee (GoDaddy)
The protection and security offered by each type of certificate is the same.
Types of SSL Certificates
Domain Validated (DV)
The Certificate Authority only verifies that the user requesting the certificate owns and administers the domain. Visitors will see a lock icon on the URL bar, but no information about the owner of the website and SSL certificate.
Organization Validated (OV)
The Certificate Authority confirms that the business requesting the certificate is registered and legitimate. Visitors can click the lock icon on the URL bar to see the name of the registered business.
Extended Validation (EV)
The Certificate Authority validates the organization by requesting even more documentation and information. Visitors will see the green lock icon and the business name inside of the address bar.
Obtaining a Free SSL Certificate
(This guide assumes you have full control of your web server and a dedicated IP.)
You will need the following information:
Once you have all of the information, you can connect to your server and generate a free SSL certificate. Follow the steps provided by Sucri.net.
Follow the instructions and fill out information when prompted. To see more information on installing an SSL certificate and maintaining it, click here.
If you prefer a professional to do the heavy lifting, contact Analytic Design! Our designers, developers, and support staff have a collective twenty years of experience and technical expertise in the marketing, analytics, design and programming arenas, which gives Analytic Design a competitive edge to help you develop strategy more effectively.
Our expert consultants will partner with you to improve performance, enhance infrastructure and stimulate growth. To learn more about our services, click here.
We are committed to providing exceptional support and service. Our success has been built on building long-standing relationships that exceed expectations related to reliability, security, performance, service and communication. If you are already our customer, thank you. If you are considering Mosaic, we look forward to sharing this commitment with you.
