An SSL certificate is simply a measure to encrypt and protect data that is transferred over the internet. SSL stands for (Secure Sockets Layer). Encryption makes it difficult or next to impossible for someone attempting to intercept that data from using it as the data will be encrypted and unreadable.

Easily put, SSL certificates communicate between a web site, a browser and the end server to scramble data, then send it over the internet to arrive at the end server where it is unscrambled and can be read safely by the site's admin.

Unfortunately, many web sites exist and collect personal and financial data from visitors without SSL security. Unknowing visitors often willingly transmit unprotected data over the internet only exposing themselves to financial hardship should their information be intercepted and used by those engaged in fraudulent activities.

This can in turn harm the web site as well if unauthorized financial transactions are disputed. And that is not to mention the hacking attacks that could follow when the scammers realize that a site is unprotected and attempt to gain entry into databases that contain sensitive customer information.

The first step in securing your web site is to obtain an SSL certificate. There are many different certificates available. Prices range from $20 a year to close to $1000 a year depending on how secure a site needs to be based on several factors.

When you request an SSL certificate from a provider, you will be requested to provide a "certificate signing request" or CSR from a hosting company. The CSR is the host company's server side information so that the final SSL certificate will work properly. Provide the CSR and an SSL certificate will be generated. Request the CSR from us.

Installing an SSL certificate can be daunting. we offer support and installation if you need help.

Once you have an SSL certificate installed, point the security to the pages that need encrytion by using "https". In other words, if you want your homepage to be secure, link to it by using https://yourhomepage.com. Not http://yourhomepage.com.

Use relative paths: Images on a web site that has just acquired SSL security often have sources such as http://yourhomepage.com/picture.gif that are not secure and will result in error messages to visitors which may make them abandon purchases. Use relative paths with images to have them load securely with a "https" syntax.

Be wise with secured pages: Although if you wanted to, you could encrypt an entire site. Because of the nature of SSL security, it tends to slow down a site when pages are loaded. Your best bet is to only use SSL on the pages that truly need to be protected.

Why would I need an SSL Certificate?

• If you plan to have an online store or e-commerce site that accepts online orders and credit cards.
• If you collect sensitive or personal information from your website visitors on your website through web forms.
• If you allow partners, members, or others to log in to view information securely from your website.
• If you want to help your customers ensure they are visiting your actual website, avoiding phishing scams or other counterfeiting of your website.
• If you or your business desire to or are required to comply with privacy and security regulations.

How SSL Security Works (Diagram)

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