While Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificates are primarily designed for web security, they have become essential for all websites today. With the rise in cybersecurity threats, search engines such as Google consider SSL certification into account as a part of their search ranking algorithms. As such there is intrinsically a strong connection between websites, SSL, and Google.
If you’re asking, “Do I need an SSL certificate for my site?” – the simple but firm answer is yes. To learn more about SSL certificates, this article will answer all your questions about SSL certificates, including the available types, why you need one, and how At Armadillo Media based In Milton Keynes can assist you with setting up & installing SSL certificates for websites across various industries.
What is an SSL Certificate?
Websites typically use the HTTP protocol, but SSL certificates upgrade this to the more secure HTTPS, with the “S” signifying a Secure connection.
An SSL certificate is a digital file installed on web servers that helps anyone connecting to the website verify server identity. It includes details such as the domain name it protects, ownership, a digital signature, expiration date, and more.
Among this information, the most vital components are the public and private keys. These keys help encryption data that pass between websites and visitors remains protected from unauthorized access.
You can get SSL certificates from Certificate Authorities (CAs), which are trusted entities responsible for verifying the identities of applicants.
Types of SSL Certificates
Domain Validated SSL
Among SSL certificates, Domain Validated (DV) SSL is the easiest to obtain. The Certificate Authority (CA) only needs to confirm ownership of the domain, with no additional checks required. It’s the most basic level of SSL certification.
This is a simple process, DV certificates are popular for non-commercial websites such as personal blogs, portfolio sites, and hobby sites. There are even free DV SSL options available, such as those provided by Let’s Encrypt.
Organization Validated SSL
Like DV, Organization Validated (OV) SSL certificates verify domain ownership, but they go a step further. The CA also must check on the organization applying for the certificate to ensure it matches the website.
This additional verification builds trust, as visitors can view the organization’s details on the SSL certificate. Organization SSLs are typically used by business websites, especially those which deal with personal and financial customer data. This is a standard type of certificate required on a commercial or public facing website.
Extended Validation Certificate
Extended validation requires additional validation steps, offering the highest level of authentication process to safeguard your brand and users protect data. This process involves matching data with official records, confirming physical presence, conducting legal checks, and more.
EV SSL certificates are mainly aimed at websites that need to ensure high levels of security and customer trust. For example, Businesses that commonly use EV certificates include banks, eCommerce platforms, and online retailers.
Beyond the three main types of SSL certificates, there are subtypes based on the scope of coverage rather than verification.
Single Name SSL
A Single Name SSL covers only one domain. For example, if you buy a Single Name SSL for “www.mywebsite.com,” it won’t cover associated subdomains like “mail.mywebsite.com” or “sales.mywebsite.com.” This makes the distinction between domain and subdomain coverage important when selecting an SSL certificate.
Wildcard SSL
Wildcard SSL will help resolve the limitations of single name SSL. It covers the primary domain name along with as many as 250 associated subdomains. This provides much greater flexibility, allowing you to secure multiple subdomains under a single certificate, unlike the more restricted Single Name SSL.
Multi-domain SSL
Another type of comprehensive coverage you can get with an SSL is Multi domain. Organizations have their own multiple websites and distinct domain names can secure all of them under one certificate, providing a convenient and efficient solution for managing security across various domains.
Why Do You Need an SSL?
SSL certificates help websites in different ways, especially when it comes to data protection. Through encryption, SSL enabled websites to accept payment securely, protect password logins, secure web forms, and more.
Protect Confidential Data
SSL encrypts all data exchanged between a website and its visitors, ensuring that unauthorized users cannot intercept it. The private public key system has proven to be quite robust and safeguards the data against hackers.
Confirm Identity
SSL certificates confirm your website’s identity through a moderated application process. In light of numerous spoof sites and scams nowadays, it makes your page a safer place to be.
Inspire Trust
SSL certificates are widely recognized. When visitors land on your website and see the padlock icon, they immediately know they are dealing with security and reliability. Without an SSL, your site risks displaying warnings that could deter visitors by signaling that your site is insecure.
Improve SEO Rankings
SSL certification directly influences search engine rankings. Search engines now consider websites with SSL certificates a factor that hold much weight when calculating search results. The HTTPS connection signals a secure and trustworthy site to rank highly. This, combined with relevant content, can help boost your site’s rankings.
How Armadillo Media Can Help You with Setting up & Installing SSL Certificates For Websites
At Armadillo Media, based in Milton Keynes, serving businesses throughout Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire, we specialise in helping set up and install SSL certificates for your business websites. SSL certification is essential to secure your website, build trust with visitors, and improve your search engine rankings.
Here’s how we can assist you with SSL setup:
Expert Consultation
Our experienced team of web developers in Milton Keynes will assess your specific needs and recommend the most suitable SSL certificate for your website, whether it’s Domain Validated (DV), Organization Validated (OV), or Extended Validation (EV). We’ll guide you through understanding the differences and choosing the right option.
Seamless Installation
We manage the complete SSL installation process on your website, ensuring that the secure HTTPS protocol is activated and that all necessary configurations are applied. Whether you’re running a single website or managing multiple domains, our team will ensure everything is set up efficiently and securely.
Ongoing Support
Armadillo Media doesn’t just stop at installation. As an experienced web design agency based in Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire, and Buckinghamshire, provides ongoing support to help you manage renewals, troubleshoot any SSL-related issues, and ensure your website remains secure and compliant with industry standards.
Local, Trusted Service
By working with a Bedfordshire-based business like ours, you benefit from local expertise and personalized service. We understand the specific needs of businesses in the area and are dedicated to helping your website succeed in an increasingly competitive online environment.
Let Armadillo Media based in Milton Keynes be your partner in securing your website with SSL certificates, keeping your visitors’ data safe, and boosting your online credibility.