What is an SSL and why are they so important?

What is an SSL and why are they so important?

In a nutshell, an SSL is what you use to establish an encrypted link between a remote server and a user’s computer. This is typically a web server and a browser, or a mail server and the email client (i.e. Gmail, Outlook, Apple Mail etc.).

SSL stands for secure socket layer and is a standard security technology.

It creates an encrypted passage way directly from your computer to your web or email server, meaning that if the data is interpreted by a third party, it will not be understood.

This creates safe passage for credit card or other payment information, sensitive information sent through forms and secure emails.

Why do we need to be secure?

First and foremost, ensuring the security of all the data that transfers through your website should be a given practice regardless, in 2019. Nobody wishes for their information to be stolen and used for anything else, by somebody else.

We also need to be secure so we are not liable for data breaches. Accidentally leaking information through a breach could lead to fines (and in some severe scenarios; jail time).

What happens if I don’t have one?

Web browsers (Such as Google Chrome, Apple Safari & Mozilla Firefox) are showing an ‘INSECURE’ message on pages that request sensitive data, such as contact forms and payment screens.

Having an SSL certificate improves your search rankings with search engines such as Bing or Google. In a recent algorithm update, they are now actively hindering the discoverability of sites that send sensitive data unencrypted.

How do I go about getting one?

SSL’s have to be installed on the server that your website is installed on, so your first port of call is speaking to your hosting company.

We offer SSL certificates to all our clients, if you have your website hosted with us, please get in touch to discuss.

Ensuring all data on the web is passed via secure methods is the ultimate goal, but is only possible if everybody gets onboard with the notion. Please review how you handle data and how it’s processed on your websites and make appropriate action.