A Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Security Certificate is something that you can display on your website to prove the connection to your website is the secure. It’s commonly known as the “padlock” in a web browser. It proves that the connection between your computer and the website you view is encrypted and secure. This is especially important when dealing with sensitive information such as personal details or online purchases.
A website is only recognised as “secure” when your web browser is connected using a secure connection (HTTPS). Furthemore, all the details on the certificate match up with the website that’s being viewed.
Please call today on 01646 682676 to arrange a free no commitment security consultation with one of our expert website designers in Pembrokeshire.
How does it work?
SSL Certificates work by using two keys which are very long strings of randomly generated letters/numbers. One is called a private key and one is called a public key. A public key is shown to your website server and available to the public. On the other hand, a private key is kept secret on the website server itself.
When a visitor sends information to a secure website, the browser uses the public key to encrypt the data. Once encrypted, it can only be decrypted using the matching private key. As your website knows the private key, only your website can see what data was sent. Consequently anyone else that somehow managed to intercept the data will just get a long mess of letters, numbers and symbols. In other words, the encryption is so strong that they cannot break it, even with the power of a computer as this would take thousands of years.
In addition to this, security certificates get signed by a Certificate Authority. These are trusted third parties who keep records of website servers and domain names to prove websites are who they claim to be. Consequently, if the details held by the Authority do not match the ones sent to the user’s web browser by the server, you will get an alert in your browser.
Do I need a security certificate for my business?
Yes – we always recommend all of our customers make their websites secure. There are many reasons, but just to name a few :-
- Professionalism
A security certificate can be set up on any website without a - Customer Experience
Make sure your visitors feel safe and secure on your website. Comfortable customers are more likely to place orders with you.
- Search Engine Optimisation
Google gives likes sites which use SSL certificates. This is because they believe it’s good for the health of the internet and stops users from being taken advantage of.
How do I get a security certificate?
Just like anything, there are a variety of different SSL types available, some do not have a cost and just require technical knowledge to get set up, while others offer stronger encryption and cost money to renew each year. Furthermore, paid certificates come with a special warranty that they will not be compromised and include payment protection cover up to a certain value if something happens.
This all sounds too complicated – what do I do?
Don’t worry – we can help! If you’d like to set up a security certificate for your website, please give us a call on 01646 682676. Alternatively, you can send us a message using our handy contact form. Modern Print & Design have helped many businesses throughout Pembrokeshire to keep their website data safe & secure.
