You may have heard of a “Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificate” but you’re not sure if you need it. Luckily for you, we’re going to explain exactly why every website should have one.
Security
The main function of an SSL Cert is to provide security to a website through encrypting it’s connection. This can protect user data such as:
- Login Credentials
- Transactions (Credit Card, Bank Account Information, etc)
- Personal Information (Full Name, Address, DOB, etc)
- Legal Documents & Contracts
- Medical Records
- Other Proprietary Information
It encrypts all data by making it unreadable so that hackers cannot view the data being transferred between a browser and a website.
It Verifies Your Website’s Identity
The second function of an SSL Cert is to validate a website’s identity. There have been instances where people have lost thousands of euro on fake websites. This is why having a website identity is important.
Better for SEO
One of the first things any SEO expert should know to do is to put an SSL on a website. The reason behind this is that in 2014, Google made changes to it’s algorithm which gave websites with an SSL a higher ranking over those who don’t. On top of that, in 2018 Google made further changes for browsers where a warning sign would appear for websites that do not have an SSL (picture below).
This is certain to drive traffic off your website thus bringing you in less leads and conversions that you potentially could’ve made.
SSLs are Mandatory for Online Stores
If you accept any sort of payment online you must have an SSL on your website. This is one of the 12 primary requirements set by the payment car industry (PCI).
This makes an SSL Cert essential whether you want one or not.
SSLs Increase Customer Trust
When you have an SSL on your website an easily identifiable padlock appears to the left of your domain. This shows that your website is secure to all users which makes them more likely to stay on it and more importantly, spend money on your website.
Now you know if you don’t have an SSL on your website it’s time to get one! We give SSL Certs for free as part of some of our Web Design Packages as there is no reason not to have one.
