Website security – an aspect of websites that should not be overlooked. A security certificate (SSL) is exactly what helps secure it – websites that use this certificate can offer their users a secure virtual environment by protecting them from data leaks and cyber threats.

What is an SSL certificate?

As many as 82.9% of websites use SSL certificates. An SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate is a digital document that authenticates a website and encrypts data between the server and the browser. Therefore, users can be sure that the data they maintain on the website is safe.

Technically speaking, an SSL certificate is a small data file that includes the domain name, owner identity, and other information. When you try to access a website with an SSL certificate, a process called the SSL handshake happens. During it, the server and the browser authenticate each other and establish an encrypted connection.

How does an SSL certificate work and what are its types?

An SSL certificate works by creating and encrypting connections between the server and the browser to keep the data in transit secure and private. Symmetric and asymmetric encryption are used to create secure and authentic connections. Here is how the certificate works step by step:

• When connecting to a website with an SSL certificate, a secure connection is established and an authentication process called the SSL handshake begins;
• Server authentication and certificate validation, when the server sends its SSL certificate to the browser;
• A session key and encryption are created, which are temporary and encrypt the data;
• Transmission of encrypted data that is encrypted with a session key;
• Ending the session, the session key is deleted. The process is restarted.

An SSL certificate uses protocols that encrypt data so that it is only accessible to the intended recipient. Even over potentially insecure networks, data remains secure and private.

There are several types of SSL certificates, each providing a different level of security. These are:

• Domain Validated certificates, which provide basic protection and confirm that the app belongs to the domain;
• Organization Validated certificates, which provide a higher level of protection and require confirmation of the legitimacy of the organization;
• Extended Validation certificates, which are the most secure. They can be recognized by the green domain in the search bar of the browser.

Why do you need an SSL certificate?

Data security is very important these days, which is why so many websites use SSL certificates. And those that don’t use these certificates run the risk of their users being vulnerable. Here are the benefits that certifications offer:

• Data security. An SSL certificate encrypts all data, such as bank card numbers. Without it, this data is text that is easy to steal;
• Authentication. The certificate ensures that you are visiting a real website and not a fake one. This creates trust and reduces the risk of phishing;
• Data accuracy. The certificate helps ensure that data is not tampered with. Without it, hackers can change data, which leads to fake information and harmful content;
• SEO benefits. Google values ​​the security of websites. The search engine gives preference to sites with an SSL certificate, so you can rank a little higher;
• Reputation. The certificate shows that the site cares about the security of the users, so such sites are more appreciated by the users. They can be identified by a URL that has an HTTPS or security symbol.

The benefits of an SSL certificate include not only user data protection but also website authentication and more. Therefore, whether you have an e-commerce store, a blog, or any other type of website, an SSL certificate is essential for both you and your users.