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Are you hovering around several questions like why is SSL essential for my website? Do I need SSL? How is SSL beneficial to my site? This blog will clarify all your doubts related to SSL certificates. Dive into the blog and get the security insights for your online website.
What is an SSL certificate?
Since 2014, Google has been in favor of HTTPS for securing & ranking purposes.
SSL certificate, commonly known as TLS, is a protocol for encrypting Internet traffic & server identification. It makes a public key to protect the site that allows a device to enter the origin server after verifying its identity.
The certificate consists of information like the domain name for which the certificate was issued, the respective name of the person, organization, or device for whom it has been issued, which certificate authority issued it, a digital signature of the authority, issue date, expiration date, public key (the private key is kept a secret).
These keys are essentially long strings of characters used for encrypting data. Such data is decrypted only with the help of a private key and vice versa.
With the technology moving leaps & bounds, there are modern websites for which a single domain SSL certificate is not enough. Today’s website consists of multiple domains, subdomains, & webpages. To apply authentication to such a website, SSL has variations of certificates.
Types of SSL Certificates
Single Domain SSL:
Single domain SSL is for SMBs or bloggers who wants to secure a single domain. A single domain SSL is a low-cost SSL and can be purchased from reputed SSL providers or Certificate authorities like Comodo, Thawte, RapidSSL, etc. A single domain SSL falls into three types of validation methods like Domain Validation, Organization Validation and Extended Validation method. It offers 256-bit encryption and 2048-bit CSR encryption.
Wildcard SSL:
Wildcard SSL is an ideal solution where unlimited subdomains and main domain security is required. An asterisk (*) allows unlimited subdomains’ security. Once a user installs this certificate, it does not require to reissue the certificate in case of addition of a new subdomain. The certificate should be purchased from well-known SSL providers. The certificate offers SHA-256 encryption to all subdomains and main domain.
Multi-Domain SSL Certificate:
Multi Domain SSL is also referred to as Subject Alternative Names (SAN). It secures multiple domains with subdomains of a single main domain name or various domain names. It easily authenticates and secures 250 unique domains (based on provider) with a single solution. This single solution helps an organization from the hassle of purchasing specific certificates for each domain it owns.
Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL
Multi-Domain Wildcard SSLis an economical and secured certificate for n number of subdomains. The certificate secures the main domain with an unlimited number of subdomains coming under it. Multi-Domain Wildcard SSL is available in both domain and organization validation. It is an excellent choice for users willing to secure multi domains with an unlimited number of sub-domains. A wildcard SSL provides full business validation & is trusted by 99.9% of major browsers.
Unified Communication (UCC) SSL Certificate:
Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft Office Communication Server environments use UCC. It efficiently secures up to 100 domains.
Code Signing Certificate:
Code Signing certificate ensures that the code is verified and time stamped. The certificate ensures that the code is not modified since it is signed. Mostly software or app developers use such certificate and ensures end users that the software is ready to install and is free from any malware. Code Signing certificate establishes the reputation of a publisher.
Why Should You Have an SSL Certificate for Your Site?
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Data Protection:
The server-client communication has to be protected on a website. Every bit of information is encrypted with an SSL certificate. While dealing with sensitive data like IDs, passwords, etc. SSL protects the information against mischievous hacking activities. The undecipherable format of the information is an unsurpassable encryption technology.
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Identity Verification:
SSL provides authentication. When installing the certificate, you must undergo a validation process established by an independent third party known as a Certificate Authority (CA). The CA authenticates the organization’s identity, subject to the type of certificate. Once you have proven your identity, your website will receive trust indicators attesting to your honesty. Users know whom they are talking to when they see them.
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Great Search Engine Results:
Google changed the algorithm to support HTTPS-enabled websites. This has been demonstrated in numerous studies conducted by SEO experts worldwide. One such study, conducted by Brian Dean, founder of Backlinko.com, found a strong correlation between HTTPS and higher search engine rankings.
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Satisfies PCI/DSS Requirements:
Your website must be PCI compliant to receive online payments. The SSL certificate is required to accept online payments effectively.
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Gaining Customer Trust:
SSL certificates are essential for customer trust, encryption, and authentication. The easily identifiable signs inform users that the data they send is secure. They can also see your organization’s details if you have installed an OV or EV SSL. They are far more likely to do business with you or visit your website once they know you are a legitimate entity.
Finally,
From 2018 onwards, Google started flagging websites that do not have SSL certificates for safer web browsing. No matter what type of website you have, from a personal blog to a shopping portal, SSL is required, and failing to comply may result in a loss of visitors, which no website owner wants to experience.
Thus, to perform better & rank the best on a search engine, an SSL certificate is mandatory. For a successful venture & loyal followership, one needs to integrate certain online amendments to gain the utmost strength staying in this ever-changing digital world.