SSL Certificate Basics
An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates a website's identity and enables an encrypted connection between a web server and a web browser. When installed on a web server, it activates the padlock and the https protocol, allowing secure connections from a web server to a browser.
Encryption
Protects data in transit with 256-bit encryption
Authentication
Verifies website identity and ownership
Trust
Builds visitor confidence with visual indicators
Secure Your Website Today
Get started with our most popular SSL certificate
Domain Validated SSL
Starting at $9.99/year
- Instant Issuance
- 256-bit Encryption
- 99.9% Browser Trust
- 24/7 Support
How SSL Certificates Work
SSL certificates work through a process called the "SSL handshake," which establishes a secure, encrypted connection between a browser and a web server in milliseconds.
The SSL Handshake Process
- 1Browser requests secure connection to server
- 2Server sends SSL certificate and public key
- 3Browser verifies certificate with Certificate Authority
- 4Browser creates session key and encrypts it with server's public key
- 5Encrypted connection established using session key
Common SSL Mistakes to Avoid
Based on our experience helping thousands of businesses implement SSL, here are the most common mistakes we see and how to avoid them:
❌ Forgetting to renew before expiration
Set calendar reminders 30 days before expiration. Better yet, use our freeSSL Reminder Toolto get automatic email notifications.
❌ Not installing the full certificate chain
Always install intermediate certificates along with your SSL certificate. Missing chain certificates cause trust errors on some browsers and mobile devices.
❌ Mixed content warnings after installation
Update all internal links, images, and scripts to use HTTPS. Use ourSSL Checkerto identify mixed content issues.
Why Your Website Needs an SSL Certificate
SEO Benefits
- Google ranking boost for HTTPS sites
- Improved search visibility
- Better user experience signals
Trust & Security
- Protects customer data
- Prevents man-in-the-middle attacks
- Builds customer confidence
Need Help Choosing?
Our experts can help you select the right SSL certificate
SSL Consultation
Starting at Free/year
- Expert Advice
- Certificate Comparison
- Custom Recommendations
Types of SSL Certificates
There are several types of SSL certificates, each designed for different validation levels and use cases:
Domain Validated (DV)
Basic encryption with domain ownership verification. Perfect for blogs and informational websites.
Learn more →Organization Validated (OV)
Enhanced validation including business verification. Great for business websites and e-commerce.
Learn more →Extended Validated (EV)
Highest level of validation with company name display. Ideal for high-trust websites and financial services.
Learn more →