SSL Certificates and Why Your Website Needs One
SSL or Secure Sockets Layer - they’re the superhero of website security!
You know how superheroes have secret identities to protect themselves? Well, basically SSL does the same thing for your website when you purchase an SSL Certificate. It creates a secure and encrypted connection between your website and your visitors' browsers. This makes it much harder for anyone (e.g. low-down dirty hackers) to intercept and steal data.
We’re pretty sure that’s enough to make you agree that you need an SSL Certificate, but if you’re still not sure, have a think about this - do you collect any type of personal data from a visitor at all? Whether it’s just one little old email address, or something waaay more important, like passwords, payment information, and other sensitive info, then getting an SSL Certificate is a must have!
It's like having a secret code language that only your website and your users can understand, making it super tough for any bad guys to steal or tamper with the info. And the best part? Google loves SSL, and gives websites with an SSL Certificate a higher ranking in search results, making it easier for people to find you online if you have one.
To get that Secure Sockets Layer working for you asap, just following these steps:
1. Choose your SSL Certificate
First things first, you need to pick the right SSL Certificate for your website. There are different types, so choose one that suits your needs. It's like choosing the perfect disguise for a covert mission.
2. Purchase your SSL Certificate
Now it's time to get your hands on that SSL Certificate. You can get one from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA) - an official organisation that issues the certificates. Your domain name registrar or website hosting provider should be able to provide this, or you’ll definitely be able to get one from a third-party SSL provider.
3. Verify your Identity
Just like a spy needs to prove their identity, you'll need to go through a verification process. The CA will want to make sure you are who you say you are. This usually involves some paperwork and validation checks. This should be an easy process…if you are who you say you are!
4. Receive your Certificate
Once you've been verified, the CA will issue your digital SSL Certificate (it's like getting your official spy badge). The certificate will be sent through to you as a file via email.
5. Install and Activate the Certificate
Now to get technical. You need to install the certificate on your web server. Some website hosting providers install it for you, while others have easy-to-follow guides - don’t worry, it's not as tricky as defusing a bomb – promise!
6. Test Your Certificate
You're almost there - now it’s time to test your SSL Certificate and make sure it's working like a charm. There are online tools that can help you with this, think of it like running a quick spy gadget diagnostic.
7. Update Your Website
Lastly, make sure your website references the "https" version instead of "http" - this tells your visitors that they're in the secure zone.
Once your SSL Certificate is activated, your website will display the secure padlock icon in the browser address bar across the top of all web browsers - like what you see above for www.unmazeonline.com. Now all your many visitors will know that their connection to your website is secure, and that their sensitive information is being kept as safe as possible.
So if you want to keep your website safe and boost your SEO game (and who wouldn’t want to do both of these things right?), then SSL is your go-to hero and a must-have!