An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a digital certificate that authenticates a website's identity and enables encrypted communication between a web browser and server. Modern certificates actually use TLS (Transport Layer Security), the successor to SSL. Websites with SSL certificates show a padlock icon and use https:// instead of http://. SSL is essential for user trust, data security, and SEO — Google uses HTTPS as a ranking signal.
FAQ
What is an SSL certificate?
An SSL certificate encrypts data between a user's browser and your server, enabling HTTPS and displaying the padlock icon.
Do I need SSL for my domain?
Yes. SSL is essential for security, user trust, and SEO. Most hosting providers and registrars offer free SSL through Let's Encrypt.