An SSL Certificate is a digital credential that serves as a security measure for online communications. It functions by encrypting data that is transmitted between a web server and a user’s web browser, safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access or interception. When a website is equipped with an SSL Certificate, it establishes a secure and encrypted connection, ensuring that user data, such as personal details and payment information, remains private and secure.
Visually, the presence of an SSL Certificate on a website can be recognized by a padlock icon displayed in the browser’s address bar. Additionally, the website’s URL will begin with “https://” rather than the unsecured “http://”, signaling to users that the connection is secure and that the site has taken measures to protect their information. This level of security is essential for building trust with visitors and is often required for e-commerce sites and any online service that handles sensitive data.