What are SSL Certificates?
A Secure Sockets Layer or SSL certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates the identity of a website and enables an encrypted connection. SSL certificates establish a secure connection between a server and a web browser by encrypting transmitted data using a cryptographic system. This ensures privacy, integrity and guard users against online risks like data leaks, malware and other cyber threats.
Types of SSL Certificates
There are different types of SSL certificates available depending on their validity period and usage. Some common types are:
Domain Validated (DV) SSL Certificates
DV SSL certificates verify only that the applicant controls or owns the domain requesting the certificate. This is the most basic and affordable type but does not provide extended validation.
Organization Validated (OV) SSL Certificates
OV SSL provides more assurance than DV as it requires additional validation of business verification. However, it does not provide the highest level of trust as Extended Validation (EV).
Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates
EV SSL provides the highest level of browser security and validity. EV SSL certificates undergo the most stringent requirements and validation process which involves legal business verification. This results in a green address bar and improved perceptions of trust, leading to more conversions.
Wildcard SSL Certificates
Wildcard SSL certificates secure an unlimited number of subdomains on a single domain with one certificate. For example, a wildcard for www.example.com would secure *.example.com, mail.example.com and any other subdomains.
Multi-Domain SSL Certificates
As the name suggests, multi-domain SSL certificates can secure multiple fully-qualified domain names with one certificate. These are ideal for companies operating different sites under one umbrella.
SAN/UCC SSL Certificates
Subject Alternative Name or Unified Communications Certificate SSL allow securing multiple domains and subdomains with a single certificate by listing them as Subject Alternative Names. This provides flexibility compared to separate certificates for each domain.
How do SSL Certificates Work?
During the secure connection process between a server and web browser, the following steps occur:
1. A user enters a website URL in HTTPS format into their browser.
2. The server hosting the website sends the browser its SSL certificate along with other identification details.
3. The browser validates the SSL certificate by verifying the digital signature and validation against the signing Certificate Authority (CA). Popular CAs include Symantec, GoDaddy, Comodo etc.
4. If validated successfully, the browser and server negotiate an encryption algorithm and cryptographic keys to be used for their session.
5. All data transmitted between the browser and server from this point onwards gets encrypted using these keys.
6. The SSL certificate ensures only the server holding the valid private key can decrypt the information, thus establishing a secure encrypted tunnel.
Why are SSL Certificates Important?
SSL/TLS encryption and certificates play a pivotal role in online security and privacy. Here are some key reasons why they are important:
– Encrypts Data in Transit: Sensitive data like payment details, personal information, logins etc are vulnerable to theft or modification when transmitted online without encryption. SSL encrypts the data to prevent unauthorized access.
– Provides Authentication: The digital certificate validates the identity of the website to users. This eliminates the risk of phishing and spoofing attempts impersonating legitimate sites.
– Enhances User Trust: The green lock and https in the address bar signals users that the site can be trusted with their personal and financial details. It increases brand trust and assurance.
– Google Ranking Factor: Having SSL certification installed and configured properly is considered a positive ranking factor by Google. This likely improves search visibility and traffic.
– Compliance Requirement: Many compliance standards like PCI DSS, HIPAA, GDPR require websites to only transmit sensitive data over HTTPS to be compliant. SSL is vital for regulatory adherence.
– Prevents sniffing & Man-in-the-middle Attacks: SSL encryption protects transmitted data from being compromised by packet sniffers, malware or man-in-the-middle style cyber attacks.
In summary, SSL/TLS certificates provide the essential encryption layer for privacy, security and trust needed for users and search engines alike in today’s digital world. They are a core website component for any business transacting online.
*Note:
- Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
- We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it