What is an SSL certificate?

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that is used to secure and authenticate communication between a website and a user’s web browser. When a website has an SSL certificate installed, it ensures that any information exchanged between the website and the user’s browser is encrypted and kept private.

SSL certificates are typically used for websites that require users to input sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card details. They work by encrypting the data that is transmitted between the user’s browser and the website’s server, making it much harder for unauthorized third parties to intercept and access the data.

In addition to providing security, SSL certificates also help to establish the identity of a website. When a user visits a website with an SSL certificate, their browser will display a padlock icon or a green address bar to indicate that the website is verified and trusted. This can help to increase user trust and confidence in the website, as well as improve search engine rankings.